The depressive symptoms experienced with bipolar disorder are the same as those for a typical depressive episode. (See our signs & symptoms of depression page.) The difference between bipolar disorder and normal depression are the hypermanic mood states that accompany it.
Signs of hypomania (manic states)
- Lack of sleep: A relatively sudden reduction in the amount of sleep a person needs is often the first warning sign that they are going into a manic state. They may experience a decreased need for sleep, getting only 3 or 4 hours a night or even staying up for nights on end.
- Restlessness
- An exuberant and elevated mood
- Excessive confidence
- A racing mind or rapid talking
- Becoming extremely focused
- May become more productive or creative
- An excessive amount of energy
- Feelings of euphoria or a sense of invincibility
- Increase in sex drive
- Reckless or risky behavior
- Excessive religiosity
- Unusually poor judgment
- Delusions of grandeur or overconfidence in one’s powers & abilities
- Substance abuse
- Provocative or aggressive behavior
- Hallucinations
- A sustained period of unusual behavior
- Denial that such behavior is abnormal or concerning
It’s important to note that “just because an individual needs little sleep, is highly creative, and has an abundance of energy, it does not always indicate Bipolar II disorder,” says Dr. Fieve. But if you notice a pattern of behavior fitting the descriptions listed above, it may be time to dig a little deeper.