What does it Mean to Be Bipolar?

Being bipolar is a term used for a type of mental illness that can affect your mood, thoughts, behavior, and energy level. This mental disorder is characterized by extreme shifts in mood, from extreme highs and euphoria to severe lows and depression. Many people with bipolar disorder experience periods of feeling on top of the world, followed by periods of extreme depression where it feels like nothing can pull them out of the darkness.

At its most basic, bipolar disorder involves a cycle of emotional highs and lows. These cycles can last anywhere from a few days to months at a time and can change quickly, sometimes even changing within a single day.

The Different Types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is often divided into two broad categories, known as bipolar I and bipolar II.

Bipolar I is a type of manic-depressive disorder characterized by periods of extreme manic energy, often accompanied by a sense of euphoria, followed by depressive episodes. People with bipolar I disorder may also experience psychosis, or a break from reality.

Bipolar II is marked by episodes of extreme highs and extreme lows, but the highs are less intense than those seen with bipolar I. People with bipolar II may experience hypomania, which is a period of very mild mania that doesnt involve psychosis.

What Are the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?

The signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary depending on which type you have and your individual experience. Generally, however, people with bipolar disorder will experience times of extreme highs and lows in their moods.

Common symptoms of bipolar disorder include:

• Elevated, expansive, or irritable mood lasting at least a week
• Extreme changes in activity, energy levels, or sleep
• Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering
• Engaging in risky behaviors
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Hallucinations or delusions

How Is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed?

If you or a loved one is experiencing any of the above symptoms and youre concerned about bipolar disorder, its a good idea to reach out to a mental health professional for an evaluation.

Diagnosis of bipolar disorder usually requires a physical exam, lab tests, and an evaluation of your mental health status. Your doctor may ask you to keep a mood journal or keep track of how your moods change over time. They will also ask questions about your family history and any medical or mental health issues you may have had in the past.

Conclusion

If you or a loved one is struggling with the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder, its important to seek help. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment, but with the right help and support you can learn to manage your symptoms and lead a more balanced life. With the right care and support, you can reach a place of stability and live a life filled with joy and purpose. Keywords: Mental health, bipolar disorder, depression, mania, hypomania, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment. Long-tail keywords: Mental health professional evaluation, Mood journal, physical exam, lab tests, symptoms of bipolar disorder.

This meta description will inform the reader of the different types of bipolar disorder, it’s associated symptoms, and how to effectively manage them. Learn more about the different types of bipolar disorder including bipolar I and II, their respective symptoms, how they are diagnosed and treated by a mental health professional.