Everyone experiences happiness, sadness and changes in energy. Bipolar disorder, however, involves distinct episodes of depression and mania or hypomania that can alter sleep, activity, judgement and everyday functioning. It is more than ordinary mood variation. [1]
During depression, life may feel heavy and slow. During mania, thoughts can race, the need for sleep may fall and a person may talk more, take unusual risks or feel invincible. Hypomania is less severe than mania, but it can still affect relationships and important decisions. [2]
One unusually good or bad day does not establish the diagnosis. Assessment explores patterns over time, the duration of episodes, previous history and other possible explanations. Marked mania, severe depression or risk of harm requires prompt psychiatric assessment. [3]
References
- WHO. Bipolar disorder. Fact sheet. 2026.
- NIMH. Bipolar disorder: mania, hypomania and depression.
- NICE. Bipolar disorder: assessment and management. CG185.
This information does not replace an individual medical assessment. Seek urgent assistance in an emergency.