top of page

Home  >> Problems  >>

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that involves significant changes in mood, energy, activity levels, and thinking. People with bipolar disorder experience episodes of depression and periods of elevated mood, which may include mania or hypomania. These shifts can affect relationships, work, sleep, decision-making, and day-to-day functioning.

 

Mood changes in bipolar disorder are typically more intense and longer-lasting than ordinary fluctuations in mood or energy. Some people experience episodes infrequently, whilst others may notice more regular changes over time.

What can bipolar disorder feel like?

Symptoms can vary between individuals and may depend on whether someone is experiencing a depressive, manic, or hypomanic episode.

 

Depressive episodes

During periods of depression, people may experience:

 

Emotional experiences

  • Persistent sadness or low mood

  • Hopelessness or emptiness

  • Loss of interest or pleasure

  • Irritability or emotional numbness

 

Physical symptoms

  • Fatigue or low energy

  • Sleeping too much or too little

  • Changes in appetite

  • Difficulty concentrating

 

Cognitive experiences

  • Negative thinking patterns

  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

  • Difficulty making decisions

  • Suicidal thoughts in some cases

Mania and hypomania

Mania involves a significantly elevated or irritable mood alongside increased energy and activity levels. Hypomania is similar but generally less severe and may not cause the same level of disruption.

 

Symptoms may include:

 

Emotional and behavioural experiences

  • Feeling unusually energetic or euphoric

  • Increased confidence or grandiosity

  • Talking more quickly or excessively

  • Racing thoughts

  • Reduced need for sleep

  • Increased impulsivity or risk-taking

  • Becoming easily irritated or agitated

 

Behavioural changes

  • Excessive spending

  • Increased social activity

  • Taking risks that feel out of character

  • Difficulty slowing down or relaxing

  • Starting many projects without completing them

 

During severe manic episodes, some individuals may also experience psychotic symptoms such as delusional beliefs or hallucinations.

Different types of bipolar disorder

There are different forms of bipolar disorder, including:

 

  • Bipolar I disorder – involves episodes of full mania, often alongside depressive episodes

  • Bipolar II disorder – involves depressive episodes and hypomania rather than full mania

  • Cyclothymia – involves ongoing fluctuations in mood that are less severe but more persistent

 

A formal diagnosis should always be made by a psychiatrist.

What causes bipolar disorder?

There is no single known cause of bipolar disorder. Research suggests it is likely influenced by a combination of:

 

  • Genetic vulnerability

  • Brain chemistry and neurological factors

  • Stressful life events

  • Trauma or adverse childhood experiences

  • Sleep disruption and lifestyle factors

 

Episodes may sometimes be triggered by stress, lack of sleep, substance use, or significant life changes.

How common is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder affects millions of people worldwide and can develop at any age, though symptoms often begin in late adolescence or early adulthood. Bipolar disorder is sometimes misunderstood or misdiagnosed, particularly where symptoms overlap with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma-related difficulties, or personality difficulties.

What treatment do we offer?

Bipolar disorder is a treatable condition, and many people are able to manage symptoms effectively with the right combination of support, treatment, and self-management strategies.

 

Therapy can help individuals:

  • Understand mood patterns and triggers

  • Develop coping strategies

  • Recognise early warning signs of episodes

  • Improve emotional regulation

  • Reduce shame, fear, or self-criticism

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT may help by:

  • Managing depressive thinking patterns

  • Reducing impulsive or unhelpful behaviours

  • Improving routines, sleep, and stress management

  • Supporting relapse prevention planning

 

Stable routines can play an important role in managing bipolar disorder, including:

  • Regular sleep patterns

  • Stress management

  • Monitoring mood changes

  • Reducing alcohol or substance use

  • Maintaining supportive relationships

Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)

CFT can support:

  • Reducing shame and self-criticism

  • Developing self-compassion following difficult episodes

  • Improving emotional regulation and self-care

Medical support

Treatment often involves support from a GP or psychiatrist and may include mood-stabilising medication. Medication can play an important role in reducing the intensity and frequency of mood episodes.

A compassionate note

Living with bipolar disorder can feel exhausting, unpredictable, and at times frightening, particularly when mood changes affect relationships, work, identity, or self-confidence. Many people also experience shame, fear of judgement, or frustration about their symptoms. With the right support, understanding, and treatment, many individuals living with bipolar disorder are able to manage symptoms effectively, build stability, and lead meaningful and fulfilling lives.

Further support and resources

You may find these trusted organisations helpful:

bottom of page