Bipolar disorder causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels that go far beyond typical ups and downs. These changes can damage relationships, affect job or school performance, and even lead to suicide. But with proper treatment, people with bipolar disorder can lead full, productive lives.
Bipolar disorder involves distinct periods of abnormally elevated mood (mania or hypomania) and periods of depression. During manic episodes, you might feel euphoric, full of energy, or unusually irritable. During depressive episodes, you may feel sad, hopeless, or lose interest in most activities.
About 2.8% of U.S. adults experience bipolar disorder each year. It affects men and women equally and typically develops in late adolescence or early adulthood, though symptoms can appear at any age.
Recognizing symptoms is the first step toward getting help. Not everyone experiences all symptoms.
The exact cause of bipolar disorder isn't known, but several factors are involved:
Effective treatments are available. Many people benefit from a combination of approaches.
Lithium and anticonvulsants help control manic and depressive episodes. These are typically the foundation of treatment and require regular monitoring.
May be used alone or with mood stabilizers to manage manic symptoms. Some newer antipsychotics can also help with depressive episodes.
CBT, family therapy, and psychoeducation help you recognize mood patterns, develop coping strategies, and improve medication adherence.
Maintaining regular sleep schedules, avoiding alcohol and drugs, and reducing stress are crucial for preventing mood episodes.
Connecting with others who have bipolar disorder provides understanding, reduces isolation, and offers practical management tips.
These strategies can help you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Learning to recognize early warning signs of mood episodes helps you take action quickly:
Consistency in daily routines helps prevent mood episodes:
Quick action when you notice warning signs can prevent a full episode:
Supporting someone with bipolar disorder requires understanding that they're dealing with a real medical condition, not character flaws or bad choices.
"I've noticed you haven't been sleeping much. How are you feeling?"
"Is there anything I can do to support you right now?"
"I'm here to listen if you want to talk about what you're going through."
"Can I help you stick to your routine this week?"
of U.S. adults experience bipolar disorder annually
of cases are classified as severe
of onset is 25 years old
of people with untreated bipolar disorder die by suicide
Recovery is possible with the right support and treatment. If you're struggling, please reach out to a mental health professional or call 988 for immediate support.
This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Bipolar disorder causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels that go far beyond typical ups and downs. These changes can damage relationships, affect job or school performance, and even lead to suicide. But with proper treatment, people with bipolar disorder can lead full, productive lives.
Bipolar disorder involves distinct periods of abnormally elevated mood (mania or hypomania) and periods of depression. During manic episodes, you might feel euphoric, full of energy, or unusually irritable. During depressive episodes, you may feel sad, hopeless, or lose interest in most activities.
About 2.8% of U.S. adults experience bipolar disorder each year. It affects men and women equally and typically develops in late adolescence or early adulthood, though symptoms can appear at any age.
Recognizing symptoms is the first step toward getting help. Not everyone experiences all symptoms.
The exact cause of bipolar disorder isn't known, but several factors are involved:
Effective treatments are available. Many people benefit from a combination of approaches.
Lithium and anticonvulsants help control manic and depressive episodes. These are typically the foundation of treatment and require regular monitoring.
May be used alone or with mood stabilizers to manage manic symptoms. Some newer antipsychotics can also help with depressive episodes.
CBT, family therapy, and psychoeducation help you recognize mood patterns, develop coping strategies, and improve medication adherence.
Maintaining regular sleep schedules, avoiding alcohol and drugs, and reducing stress are crucial for preventing mood episodes.
Connecting with others who have bipolar disorder provides understanding, reduces isolation, and offers practical management tips.
These strategies can help you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Learning to recognize early warning signs of mood episodes helps you take action quickly:
Consistency in daily routines helps prevent mood episodes:
Quick action when you notice warning signs can prevent a full episode:
Supporting someone with bipolar disorder requires understanding that they're dealing with a real medical condition, not character flaws or bad choices.
"I've noticed you haven't been sleeping much. How are you feeling?"
"Is there anything I can do to support you right now?"
"I'm here to listen if you want to talk about what you're going through."
"Can I help you stick to your routine this week?"
of U.S. adults experience bipolar disorder annually
of cases are classified as severe
of onset is 25 years old
of people with untreated bipolar disorder die by suicide
Recovery is possible with the right support and treatment. If you're struggling, please reach out to a mental health professional or call 988 for immediate support.
This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.