Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder includes both manic and depressive episodes, so the symptoms are very different depending on where the person is in the bipolar cycle. Manic symptoms may include excess energy, irritability or agitation, trouble sleeping, risky behavior, and a feeling of being elated. Depressive symptoms are similar to those associated with clinical depression: feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, lack of enjoyment in activities, and suicidal thoughts, among others.

Because people are more likely to seek help for bipolar disorder when they are feeling depressed, it is sometimes mistaken for depression. However, manic episodes can sometimes include psychotic symptoms that may be misdiagnosed as schizophrenia or borderline personality disorder. The good news is that, after proper diagnosis, treatment helps many people with bipolar disorder gain better control of their symptoms.