Bipolar Disorder: Symptoms, Types, Causes, and Treatments

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes dramatic shifts in mood, energy, and daily functioning. These changes are much more intense than ordinary ups and downs. A person with bipolar disorder might experience periods of extreme excitement and confidence, known as mania or hypomania, followed by deep episodes of depression.

The condition affects about 2.8% of adults in the United States, but it touches many more lives through families, relationships, and communities. Although bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness, the good news is that it can be managed effectively with the right combination of treatment and support.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

There are several forms of bipolar disorder, each with its own pattern of symptoms. Bipolar I is the most well-known. It involves at least one episode of full mania, which may last a week or longer and sometimes requires hospitalization. People with bipolar I may also have depressive episodes, but the manic phase is what defines this type.

Bipolar II is often misunderstood as a “milder” version, but that is not accurate. While it does not include full-blown mania, it involves cycles of hypomania and severe depression. The depressive episodes can last longer and feel just as debilitating, if not more so, than in bipolar I.

Another form is cyclothymic disorder, which involves many periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms lasting at least two years. These symptoms are less severe than bipolar I or II but still disruptive to daily life. Some people also receive a diagnosis of “other specified” or “unspecified” bipolar disorder if their symptoms don’t neatly fit these categories.

Symptoms and Episodes

The symptoms of bipolar disorder usually appear as either manic or depressive episodes, though they can also mix together. Mania is often described as a high-energy state. A person may feel euphoric, sleep very little, speak rapidly, jump from thought to thought, and make risky decisions such as spending sprees or reckless driving. In severe cases, mania can include psychosis—losing touch with reality through hallucinations or delusions.

Hypomania shares many of these features but is less extreme. A person may feel unusually energetic, social, or productive, but their behavior is not as disruptive. Unlike mania, hypomania does not include psychosis.

On the opposite side are depressive episodes. These periods are marked by feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, or irritability. Many people lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, struggle with concentration, experience major changes in sleep and appetite, and feel drained of energy. In the most severe cases, thoughts of death or suicide can occur.

Children and teenagers with bipolar disorder may show slightly different patterns. Their mood changes can happen more quickly, and distinguishing between normal adolescent ups and downs and genuine symptoms can be challenging. Still, the intensity of the swings is usually far beyond ordinary teenage behavior.

Who Is Affected

Bipolar disorder can affect anyone, but research has identified some trends. Women are more likely to experience bipolar II and to cycle through episodes more quickly, sometimes four or more times in a year. They also tend to spend more time in depressive phases. Men, on the other hand, are more likely to develop bipolar I, with severe manic episodes often appearing earlier in life.

Children and teenagers can also be affected, though diagnosis in young people is often complex. Historically, people from marginalized groups have sometimes been misdiagnosed. For instance, individuals of African ancestry experiencing bipolar-related psychosis have in the past been mistakenly diagnosed with schizophrenia. These patterns highlight the importance of careful, accurate assessment by experienced professionals.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not fully understood, but most experts believe it results from a combination of biological and environmental factors. Genetics play a role, as people with a close relative who has bipolar disorder are more likely to develop it themselves. Differences in brain structure and chemistry may also be linked.

Environmental stressors can trigger or worsen episodes. These might include trauma, major life changes, sleep disruption, or substance misuse. However, having a family history or experiencing stress alone does not guarantee someone will develop bipolar disorder—it’s usually an interplay of several risk factors.

Diagnosis

Bipolar disorder is often difficult to diagnose because its symptoms overlap with other mental health conditions such as depression, ADHD, or anxiety disorders. Diagnosis usually involves a detailed evaluation by a mental health professional, often using the DSM-5 criteria, medical history, and sometimes feedback from family members who observe the mood shifts. Because symptoms can vary widely, many people go years before receiving an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment and Management

Although there is no cure, bipolar disorder can be managed successfully with treatment. Most treatment plans combine medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.

Medications are commonly prescribed to stabilize mood and may include lithium, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, or in some cases antidepressants combined with other drugs. Finding the right medication can take time, since people respond differently and side effects vary.

Therapy is another cornerstone of treatment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps people identify unhelpful thought patterns, while Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy focuses on building consistent daily routines to reduce mood swings. Psychoeducation—learning to recognize early warning signs of episodes—also helps both patients and families.

Lifestyle habits can make a big difference. Regular sleep, healthy eating, exercise, and avoiding drugs and alcohol all help maintain stability. Some people also explore natural or complementary approaches such as omega-3 supplements, though these should always be discussed with a healthcare professional to avoid harmful interactions.

Living With Bipolar Disorder

Managing bipolar disorder is a long-term process, but many people live balanced and fulfilling lives once they understand their condition and follow a treatment plan. Self-awareness is key. Keeping a mood journal, learning personal triggers, and building a strong support system can help prevent relapses.

Living with bipolar disorder also means practicing patience and compassion for oneself. There may be setbacks, but treatment makes stability possible. Support groups and online communities can also provide valuable encouragement and reduce feelings of isolation.

When to Seek Help

Because bipolar disorder can involve suicidal thoughts, it is important to know when immediate help is needed. If you or someone you love is in danger of self-harm, contact emergency services right away. In the U.S., calling or texting 988 connects you to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which is available 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is bipolar disorder curable?
No, but it is treatable. Many people manage their symptoms effectively and live stable lives with treatment.

What’s the difference between bipolar disorder and depression?
Depression involves only low moods, while bipolar disorder includes both lows and highs (mania or hypomania).

Can children have bipolar disorder?
Yes, but diagnosis is more complex. Symptoms often look different in children and teens compared to adults.

The Bottom Line

Bipolar disorder is a serious but manageable condition. It involves cycles of depression, mania, or hypomania that can interfere with everyday life, but treatment helps restore balance. With the right combination of medication, therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and support, people with bipolar disorder can live full and meaningful lives. If you notice symptoms in yourself or a loved one, seeking help early is the best step toward stability and well-being.