Understanding Bipolar Disorder in Adults: Signs You Should Know
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects mood, energy, and activity levels. Unlike everyday mood changes, bipolar disorder causes extreme swings between high and low moods, which can make daily life feel unpredictable and overwhelming. These swings are called episodes: a “mania” or “hypomania” episode for highs, and a depression episode for lows.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder in Adults
1. Mania or Hypomania (High Mood Episodes)
During mania, a person may feel extraordinarily happy, energetic, or confident. Sometimes they feel unstoppable or that they can do anything. Common signs include:
Talking very fast or jumping from one idea to another
Feeling restless or agitated
Sleeping very little but not feeling tired
Spending money recklessly or making risky decisions
Feeling unusually self-important or invincible
Engaging in behaviors that are out of character, like starting new projects impulsively
Hypomania is a milder form of mania that might not interfere as much with daily life but is still noticeable.
2. Depression (Low Mood Episodes)
During depressive episodes, a person may feel sad, empty, or hopeless for days or weeks. Symptoms may include:
Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
Feeling tired or sluggish, even with enough sleep
Trouble concentrating or making decisions
Changes in appetite or weight
Feeling worthless or guilty
Thoughts of self-harm or death
These episodes can make work, family life, and personal care feel extremely difficult.
3. Mixed Episodes
Some adults experience mixed episodes, which combine symptoms of mania and depression. They may feel agitated or irritable while also feeling sad or hopeless. These episodes can be confusing and overwhelming.
How Bipolar Disorder is Diagnosed
A diagnosis usually involves:
Tracking mood changes over time
A mental health evaluation with a professional
Reviewing family history, as bipolar disorder can run in families
Ruling out other conditions, such as thyroid problems or substance use, which can mimic symptoms
A licensed mental health provider, like Luisa Garcia at Sunset Behavioral Health, can guide adults through this process safely and compassionately.
Why Early Support Matters
Recognizing symptoms early is important. Without treatment, bipolar disorder can affect relationships, work, and overall health. Treatment often includes:
Medication management to stabilize mood
Psychotherapy to learn coping skills and manage triggers
Lifestyle adjustments, such as consistent sleep and stress management
How Sunset Behavioral Health Can Help
At Sunset Behavioral Health, we offer virtual, personalized psychiatric care for adults in Florida. You’ll meet Luisa Garcia, a dual-certified Family & Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who treats all ages and stages of mental health. Our patients can be seen within 48 hours, so you don’t have to wait weeks for care.
We treat conditions such as:
Anxiety and panic disorder
Depression and mood disorders
Bipolar disorder
ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and more
📞 Book Your FREE 15-Minute Consult Today: https://www.sbhmind.com/
Take the first step toward understanding your mood, getting support, and feeling like yourself again. We’re here for you every step of the way.
