Symptoms of bipolar disorder include episodes of manic and depressive behavior, often interspersed with normal mood periods.

Manic Symptoms

• Excessive "high" or euphoric feelings
• Obnoxious, provocative or intrusive behavior
• Unrealistic beliefs in one's abilities and powers
• Increased energy, restlessness, racing thoughts and rapid talking
• Denial that anything is wrong

Depressive Symptoms

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
• Change in  appetite and weight loss or weight gain
• Chronic pain or other persistent bodily symptoms that are not caused by physical disease
• Persistent sad or empty mood
• Fatigue and sleep disturbances
• Thoughts of suicide or that life is not worth living

Patients suffering from manic episodes of bipolar disorder occasionally experience delusions, hallucinations, or disorganized thinking; If you or your loved one has feelings such as these, please contact a healthcare professional. Your loved one may need professional help or medication to manage these symptoms.

It is estimated that the suicide rate among untreated individuals with bipolar disorders is 15 percent. Getting professional help may reduce the risk of suicide and help cope with these feelings.

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