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Manic Depressive Disorder - Bipolar Disorder


Symptoms & Signs

What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?

When an individual is in the manic phase of bipolar disorder, the following symptoms may occur:

  • behavior that is aggressive or intrusive
  • denial that behavior is abnormal
  • fast, incessant talking
  • increased energy and activity
  • increased interest in sex
  • irritability
  • poor judgment that may lead to spending sprees or risky behaviors
  • sleeplessness
  • a tendency to be easily distracted
  • The depressive phase of this disorder is characterized by the following:

  • appetite problems
  • decreased energy
  • difficulty paying attention or making decisions
  • feeling very sensitive emotionally
  • feelings of sadness, despair, and emptiness
  • inability to feel pleasure
  • irritability
  • loss of motivation and withdrawal from others
  • low self-esteem
  • pessimism, negativity
  • sleeping problems
  • thoughts about suicide and death
  • A manic or depressive episode may last from a few days to several months. Some people switch between moods several times each day.

    Some people with bipolar disorder have episodes of psychosis. Psychosis is a significant mental disorder that has a physical or emotional source. Symptoms of psychosis may include hallucinations and delusions. Hallucinations occur when a person hears or sees something that isn't really there. Delusions are false beliefs that aren't logical.

    Some people have symptoms of a mixed bipolar state. These individuals are often agitated and very sad. They may have high energy. Psychosis and suicidal thinking are common in a mixed bipolar state.


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