People with bipolar disorder can have periods where they feel extremely happy and energized and other periods of feeling very sad and hopeless. In between those periods, they usually feel normal. We can think of these differences between the highs and the lows as opposing “poles” of mood, which is why it’s called “bipolar” disorder.

The word “manic” is used to describe the periods when someone feels overly excited and confident. These can also present as irritability and lead to impulsive or reckless decision-making. Some people report having delusions (believing things that aren’t true and that they can’t be talked out of) or hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there) during manic periods.  Typical symptoms might  include excessive excitement, rapid changes in mood, reduced need for sleep, and demonstrating poor judgement including making unrealistic plans.

“Hypomanic” is used to describe milder symptoms of mania, and are not typically interfering with everyday life. These individuals may still have a reduced need for sleep and emotional changes but the period of “up” lasts only for several days.

The depressive period symptoms we might recognize including loss of energy, hopelessness, sleeping more, changes in appetite, and thoughts of death or suicide.   Most people with bipolar disorder spend more time with depressive symptoms than in manic or hypomanic symptoms.

Bipolar disorder can be treated, although it is a long-term condition that will likely need ongoing care.  Medication is the main treatment, usually involving “mood stabilizers”.  These medications can help to even out the rapid mood shifts and allow for a more even presentation of emotion.   Combinations of medicines are often used for better outcomes.   Psychotherapy is recommended in conjunction with medication to develop new skills to use in anticipation or management of mood shifts.