More than 2 million Americans have bipolar disorder.
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. People struggling with bipolar disorder often feel unable to maintain a sense of calm about life.
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
- Strong sexual energy
- 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 once was pleasurable
- Always tired, hard to get out of bed
- Loss of interest in food, or overeating
- Little to no sexual energy
- 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
