Half of all cases of bipolar disorder begin in before the age of 25.

We all experience shifting moods. Bipolar disorder, often called manic depression, is a more extreme version. Moods fluctuate between extreme highs (mania) to serious lows (depression) along with periods of “normal” mood.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

The Highs (Mania)

• Feeling powerful, anything is possible, nothing can interfere
• Lots of energy
• Feeling restless, don’t need much sleep
• Unable to focus on anything for very long
• Talking very fast or unable to stop talking
• Bouts of uncontrolled spending and purchasing
• Feedback from family/friends of unusual behavior

The Lows (Depression)

• Overwhelming feelings of sadness, emptiness
• No longer enjoying what you once enjoyed
• Always tired, hard to get out of bed
• Loss of interest in food, or overeating
• Difficult to focus, forgetful
• Often feeling mad or angry at everyone or everything
• Disinterest in talking to people
• Thinking or talking about death or suicide