Bipolar Disorder: Symptoms, Types, Treatment & Living Well

Compassionate, evidence-based care for mood stability. If you’re in immediate danger or thinking about self-harm, call or text 988 (U.S.) or go to the nearest emergency room.

Bipolar disorder—sometimes called manic-depressive illness—is a treatable mood condition marked by cycles of elevated mood (mania or hypomania) and depression. With the right plan—medication, psychotherapy, and practical daily-rhythm support—many people build steady, rewarding lives.

Fast Facts

Main types: Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and Cyclothymic Disorder.
Core features: Episodes of mood elevation and depression with periods of stability between episodes.
Care works best when medication is combined with structured psychotherapy and consistent sleep/light routines.

Signs & Symptoms

Mania (Bipolar I)

A distinct period (about a week or more, or any duration if hospitalization is needed) of abnormally elevated or irritable mood and increased energy/activity. Common signs: decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, rapid speech, impulsive or high-risk decisions, and grandiosity.

Hypomania (Bipolar II)

Similar to mania but less severe and lasting about 4 days. Often feels like a surge in energy, productivity, sociability, and confidence; people around you usually notice a clear change.

Bipolar Depression

Low mood, loss of interest, fatigue, sleep/appetite changes, slowed thinking or agitation, feelings of worthlessness, and sometimes thoughts of death. Bipolar depression can be as impairing—or more impairing—than mania/hypomania.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar I: At least one manic episode (often with depressive episodes).
Bipolar II: At least one hypomanic and one major depressive episode; no full mania.
Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia): Chronic, fluctuating hypomanic and depressive symptoms for 2+ years (adults) that don’t meet full episode criteria.

What Causes Bipolar Disorder?

There isn’t a single cause. Genetics, brain-circuit differences, and life stress (especially disruptions in sleep and circadian rhythm) all play roles. The upshot: stable daily routines—sleep, light exposure, meals, and activity—protect against relapse.

How We Make a Diagnosis

Diagnosis is clinical and collaborative. We review timing and intensity of mood changes, sleep, energy, behaviors, and functioning; look for patterns over time; and rule out medical/substance causes (e.g., thyroid issues or steroid effects). Clear thresholds—about a week for mania and four days for hypomania—help distinguish episode types.

Treatment That Works

Medications

Mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium)
Selected anticonvulsants (e.g., valproate, lamotrigine)
Atypical antipsychotics (several options tailored to symptoms and phase)

Medication choices depend on episode type, severity, medical history, and side-effect profile. Certain medicines have special precautions (for example, valproate carries strict pregnancy-related safety requirements in many regions). We’ll discuss risks, benefits, and monitoring together.

Psychotherapy & Skills

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychoeducation to map triggers and early-warning signs.
Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) to stabilize sleep and daily routines and reduce relapse risk.
Family-focused therapy to strengthen communication and support.

Lifestyle Anchors

Keep consistent sleep and wake times; protect 7–9 hours/night.
Get morning daylight; reduce late-night light exposure.
Plan for jet lag, shift work, and stressful events in advance.
Limit alcohol and substances; build regular movement into your week.

When Hospital Care Helps

Short inpatient stays can be lifesaving during severe mania or depression—stabilizing sleep, safety, and medications.

What Care Looks Like Here

Thorough intake: symptom timeline, sleep/rhythm profile, past treatments, goals.
Personalized plan: medication if indicated, plus therapy and a daily-rhythm strategy you can actually follow.
Relapse prevention: early-warning signs, safety planning, and scheduled follow-ups.

Related care: Anxiety · Depression · Medication Management · Therapy Integration

Frequently Asked Questions

Is bipolar disorder curable?

It’s usually a long-term condition, but with the right plan many people live stable, meaningful lives. The goal is episode prevention and faster recovery when symptoms emerge.

What’s the difference between Bipolar I and Bipolar II?

Bipolar I includes at least one manic episode (often with depression). Bipolar II includes hypomania (less intense than mania) plus major depression—without full mania.

Do I have to take medication forever?

Treatment is individualized. Many people benefit from ongoing medication plus therapy; plans are revisited regularly as your life and goals evolve.

Can sleep really trigger episodes?

Yes. Disrupted sleep and irregular routines can precipitate mood episodes. Stabilizing sleep, light exposure, and daily rhythms is a core part of care.

What should I do if I feel unsafe?

If you have thoughts of harming yourself or others, call or text 988 (U.S.) or go to the nearest emergency room.

Start With a Thoughtful Evaluation

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking steadier maintenance care, we’ll build a practical plan around your life. Appointments available in-person and by telehealth.

Call us or request an appointment.

Reviewed: September 7, 2025 • Author: [Add clinician name & credentials] • Disclaimer: For education only and not a substitute for medical advice.