Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness is characterized by unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and impacts the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks.
Manic episodes may include symptoms such as high energy, reduced need for sleep, and loss of touch with reality. Depressive episodes may include symptoms such as low energy, low motivation, and loss of interest in daily activities. Mood episodes last days to months at a time and may also be associated with suicidal thoughts.
Symptoms:
Depression:
- Loss of energy
- Feeling hopeless
- Trouble concentrating
- Irritability
- Trouble sleeping, or sleeping too much
- Appetite changes
- Thoughts of death or suicide, or attempting suicide
Mania:
- Rapid speech
- Lack of concentration
- High sex drive
- Decreased need for sleep yet increased energy
- Increase in impulsivity