Early signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. People with bipolar disorder experience episodes of mania and depression, which can have a significant impact on their daily lives. However, the early signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder can be difficult to recognize, and many people may not receive a proper diagnosis until later in life.
In this article, we'll explore the early signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder, expert opinions, and industry statistics on this condition.
Understanding Bipolar Disorder
Before we delve into the early signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder, it's important to have a basic understanding of the condition.
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that affects approximately 2.8% of adults in the United States. It is characterized by episodes of mania and depression, which can vary in intensity and duration. During a manic episode, a person may feel euphoric, have excessive energy, engage in risky behavior, and experience racing thoughts. During a depressive episode, a person may feel hopeless, have low energy, and experience feelings of worthlessness.
There are three types of bipolar disorder
Bipolar I disorder: This is characterized by episodes of mania and depression, with at least one manic episode lasting for at least one week.
Bipolar II disorder: This is characterized by episodes of depression and hypomania, which is a less severe form of mania.
Cyclothymic disorder: This is a milder form of bipolar disorder that involves cycles of hypomania and depression that last for at least two years.
Now that we have a better understanding of the bipolar disorder, let's take a closer look at the early signs and symptoms.
Early Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
The early signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary depending on the individual and the type of bipolar disorder they have. Some people may experience symptoms of both mania and depression, while others may only experience symptoms of one.
Here are some of the early signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder:
Mania
During a manic episode, a person may experience the following symptoms:
Elevated or irritable mood
Increased energy and activity levels
Racing thoughts
Reduced need for sleep
Increased talkativeness
Grandiose ideas or beliefs
Risky behavior, such as impulsive spending or substance abuse
According to Dr. Susan McElroy, a psychiatrist, and researcher at the Lindner Center of HOPE, early signs of mania can include "a sudden increase in goal-directed activity, impulsivity, irritability, and elated or euphoric mood."
Hypomania
Hypomania is a less severe form of mania that is often a symptom of bipolar II disorder. During a hypomanic episode, a person may experience the following symptoms:
Elevated or irritable mood
Increased energy and activity levels
Racing thoughts
Reduced need for sleep
Increased talkativeness
Grandiose ideas or beliefs
Increased creativity or productivity
According to Dr. Rodrigo Mansur, a psychiatrist, and researcher at the University of Toronto, hypomania can be challenging to recognize because it often feels like a positive experience. "Many people with bipolar II disorder report feeling more creative and productive during hypomanic episodes, so they may not realize that it's a symptom of a mental illness," he says.
Depression
During a depressive episode, a person may experience the following symptoms:
Persistent sadness or hopelessness
Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy
Fatigue or low energy
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Thoughts of death or suicide
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