

Talking fast about a lot of different things (“flight of ideas”) Trouble falling asleep, waking up too early, or sleeping too much Episodes may also last for longer periods, such as several days or weeks.įeeling very up, high, elated, or extremely irritable or touchyįeeling jumpy or wired, more active than usual During an episode, the symptoms last every day for most of the day. These distinct periods are called “mood episodes.” Mood episodes are very different from the moods and behaviors that are typical for the person. People with bipolar disorder experience periods of unusually intense emotion, changes in sleep patterns and activity levels, and uncharacteristic behaviors-often without recognizing their likely harmful or undesirable effects. Following a prescribed treatment plan can help people manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Although the symptoms may vary over time, bipolar disorder usually requires lifelong treatment. Occasionally, bipolar symptoms can appear in children. Sometimes a person might experience symptoms of bipolar disorder that do not match the three categories listed above, and this is referred to as “other specified and unspecified bipolar and related disorders.”īipolar disorder is typically diagnosed during late adolescence (teen years) or early adulthood.

Research Training and Career Development Opportunitiesīipolar disorder (formerly called manic-depressive illness or manic depression) is a mental illness that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, concentration, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks.

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