We all experience mood shifts. Sometimes these shifts help us, and sometimes they make life feel more challenging. But when mood changes become intense, long-lasting, and disruptive to daily life, they may indicate a mood disorder like bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder affects millions of people worldwide, yet it remains widely misunderstood, including how it’s diagnosed. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 4.4% of U.S. adults experience bipolar disorder at some point in their lives. The condition can impact relationships, routines, and mental health, making it a challenging disorder to manage. Still, many people with bipolar disorder live fulfilling lives with the right support and professional resources. Understanding bipolar disorder begins by recognizing its key symptoms and how they appear in daily life.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong mental health condition involving extreme mood swings between manic highs and depressive lows. There are three main types:
- Bipolar I – Characterized by severe manic episodes, often followed by depression or hypomania (e.g., unusually high energy, overly optimistic mood, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior).
- Bipolar II – Involves hypomanic episodes paired with major depressive episodes.
- Cyclothymic Disorder – Mild mood swings over long periods
According to the Mayo Clinic, these mood changes can affect daily functioning, including work, relationships, and overall well-being.
Symptoms
People living with bipolar disorder typically experience two main types of symptoms: manic or hypomanic episodes, and depressive episodes.
Manic or hypomanic episodes are high-energy mood states where someone feels unusually excited, active, or irritable. Manic episodes are more extreme and disruptive, while hypomania is milder. Symptoms include:
- Bipolar I – Characterized by severe manic episodes, often followed by depression or hypomania (e.g., unusually high energy, overly optimistic mood, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior).
- Bipolar II – Involves hypomanic episodes paired with major depressive episodes.
- Cyclothymic Disorder – Mild mood swings over long periods.
On the other side of the spectrum are depressive episodes, which represent the “low” side of these mood swings. These episodes may last days to weeks, affecting daily life in multiple ways. They may involve persistent sadness, hopelessness, or feelings of emptiness, which can feel overwhelming. Other depressive symptoms include:
- Low energy or fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Loss of interest in usual activities
- Changes in sleep or appetite
It’s important to note that not everyone with bipolar disorder experiences all of these symptoms, and severity can vary widely.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of bipolar disorder typically involves a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional, including a review of mood history, patterns, and episode duration. In some cases, additional medical tests may be performed to rule out other conditions. The Cleveland Clinic notes that bipolar disorder is usually diagnosed in late teen years to early adulthood, which aligns with what many people experience. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve symptom management and quality of life.
Bipolar Disorder at Redbird
At Redbird Research, we conduct clinical trials focused on central nervous system disorders, including bipolar disorder. These studies help us better understand mental health conditions and contribute to the development of improved treatment options. If you have experienced some of the above symptoms or are curious about participating in bipolar disorder research, Redbird Research is currently enrolling for clinical trials in the Las Vegas area. You can check your eligibility here.