Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder involves episodes of mania where a person feels extremely “up” — full of energy, elated, sometimes euphoric — and depressive periods where they feel sad, apathetic and hopeless. If unaddressed, this condition can severely interfere with daily life and well-being but is treatable once diagnosed.

Learn

There are different types of bipolar disorder, each with varying symptoms and severity. Explore the links below to learn more about these conditions, their symptoms and why it’s important to seek treatment at the first signs of a problem.

THE BASICS

This one-minute video from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provides an overview that describes bipolar disorder.

BIPOLAR DISORDER 101

This animated TedEd video narrated by Helen M Farrell explains bipolar disorders, its symptoms and treatments.

ONE-ON-ONE WITH HALSEY

In this episode of YouTube’s Artist Spotlight Stories, Halsey and licensed therapist Dr. Snehi Kapur explore bipolar disorder in an intimate one-on-one conversation.

DIG DEEPER

This article from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMS) explores bipolar disorder and offers resources to learn more and find support.

Signs and Symptoms

Here are common symptoms of bipolar’s manic and depressive states. Bipolar disorder is associated with increased risk of substance misuse and suicide, so reach out for help as soon as you notice these signs in yourself or a loved one.

  • Mania

    Bipolar mania is a state of excessive happiness, confidence and energy. It can create a feeling of invincibility, increasing the likelihood of impulsive behaviors that are damaging to health, relationships, finances or employment. Signs of mania include: restlessness and impulsiveness; rapid speech and poor concentration; increased energy and less need for sleep; making grand and unrealistic plans; drug and alcohol abuse.

  • Depression

    For people with bipolar disorder, the heightened period of mania is often followed by severe depression that can involve: loss of energy; feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness; withdrawing from family and friends; not enjoying things once liked; trouble concentrating and forgetfulness; trouble making decisions; irritability and thoughts of suicide.

Act

If left untreated, bipolar disorder usually worsens. However, with a good treatment plan including psychotherapy, medications, a healthy lifestyle, a regular schedule and early identification of symptoms, many people live well with the condition.

Breathe

Trying to figure out how to deal with emotional struggles while we’re actually experiencing them can be challenging. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a minute to breathe, move, meditate or even make a gratitude list to help manage those feelings. Headspace offers a range of free videos to help.

TALK ABOUT IT

Too many people struggle with bipolar disorder in silence because they’re afraid of what people will think or that they’ll look weak. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. Bipolar disorder is a treatable medical condition, so there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Lean on your support network and talk about how you’re feeling (trust us, it helps).

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Our mental and physical health are intertwined, so it’s important to pay attention to both. Not getting enough sleep or the right nutrition can trigger or worsen symptoms of bipolar disorder. It’s okay to step back and take some time for yourself while you’re also reaching out for help and taking actions to feel better.

GET HELP

Symptoms of bipolar disorder typically don’t go away on their own, and when unaddressed, they can negatively impact work, school, relationships and overall wellness. Don’t wait until things get worse. Reach out for help from a professional. You can find resources below or visit our help-seeking page to learn more.

Get Support

These resources can help you find professional support online, on the phone or in person. And if you or a friend are having thoughts of suicide, reach out immediately for a free, confidential chat with a trained counselor anytime. 

When contacting a resource below, any information you provide will be collected and used by that resource, subject to its end user terms and conditions and privacy policy. Please contact the applicable resource if you would like more information.
Resource Type Contact
Crisis Text Line Text Line Text ACTION to 741741
Lifeline Call Line 988
Trans Lifeline Call Line 877-565-8860
The Trevor Project Website Visit website
ADAA Therapist Search Website Visit website
BetterHelp Website Visit website
Talkspace Website Visit website