Bipolar Disorder
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What is it?
Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder marked by shifts between distinct emotional states — periods of depression (low mood, low energy) and periods of mania or hypomania (elevated mood, high energy, and sometimes impulsivity).
These aren’t ordinary mood swings. Episodes typically last days to weeks and represent a clear change from a person’s usual functioning, often noticeable to people around them before the person notices it themselves.
Common signs & symptoms
During depressive episodes: low mood, loss of interest, fatigue, hopelessness, and changes to sleep and appetite — the same pattern described on our depression page.
During manic or hypomanic episodes
- Unusually elevated or irritable mood
- Decreased need for sleep
- Racing thoughts and rapid speech
- Inflated self-confidence
- Impulsive or risky decisions — spending, driving, relationships
- Increased energy and activity
What it is not
Bipolar disorder is not simply “being moody” or having a short temper. The mood states are distinct episodes with a clear before-and-after, not rapid switches within a single day, and they significantly affect functioning — not just emotional intensity.
When to seek help
If someone notices a pattern of distinct high and low periods — especially if a high-energy period involves risky decisions or a marked drop in the need for sleep — a psychiatric evaluation is important, since accurate diagnosis shapes treatment significantly.
Screening tools clinicians use
Screeners such as the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) are sometimes used to flag possible bipolar patterns for further clinical assessment. Diagnosis itself is made through a full psychiatric evaluation, often with input from family on episode history.
How to get help
This page is for general awareness and is not a diagnostic tool. Only a qualified professional can diagnose bipolar disorder. This platform does not provide emergency or diagnostic services — see our full Disclaimer.