What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition marked by pronounced shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These shifts take the form of elevated states (mania or hypomania) and low periods (depressive episodes), and they can interfere with work, relationships, and daily functioning.
The pattern and intensity of mood episodes differ between people. With appropriate treatment and support, most people with bipolar disorder can reduce the frequency and severity of episodes and regain stability.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Symptoms depend on whether someone is in a manic/hypomanic phase or a depressive phase.
Mania / Hypomania
- Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity
- Reduced need for sleep
- Pressured, rapid speech
- Racing thoughts and distractibility
- Impulsive or risky behavior
Depressive Episodes
- Persistent low mood or loss of interest
- Changes in sleep and appetite
- Low energy and profound fatigue
- Poor concentration
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Common Types of Bipolar Disorder Disorders
Bipolar I
Episodes of full mania often alternating with severe depression.
Bipolar II
Recurrent depressive episodes alternating with hypomanic (milder manic) episodes.
Cyclothymic disorder
Milder, chronic mood swings that do not meet full criteria for mania or major depression.
What Causes Bipolar Disorder?
Research points to a combination of genetic vulnerability, brain circuitry differences, and environmental triggers.
Genetics
- Family history significantly increases risk, though no single gene is responsible.
Brain Chemistry
- Brain imaging shows functional variations in circuitry regulating mood and energy.
Environmental Triggers
- Stress, substance use, or medical illness can precipitate episodes in vulnerable individuals.
Treating Bipolar Disorder at SavantCare
Treatment usually combines medication with psychotherapy and practical daily strategies to manage mood shifts.
Medications
Commonly includes mood stabilizers (like lithium), anticonvulsants, and antipsychotic medicines to manage highs and lows.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy, family-focused therapy, and psychoeducation help individuals manage symptoms and reduce relapse risk.
Lifestyle & Self-Help
Regular daily rhythms, consistent sleep, routine physical activity, and keeping a mood diary are crucial for stability.
Your Care Team
Our board-certified psychiatrists specialize in treating psychotic disorders with compassion and expertise.
Dr. Bernice Ponce de Leon
DO, Board-Certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist | Licensed in CA, NV
View profileWhen Should You Seek Help?
Seek urgent care if someone is at risk of harming themselves or others, or shows severe symptoms.
Reach out if you or a loved one experience:
- Thoughts or plans of suicide or self-harm
- Psychotic symptoms like hallucinations or delusions
- Dangerously impaired judgment due to a manic episode
- Inability to care for basic daily needs
- Frequent, long, or highly disruptive mood episodes
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Our team is here to help — no pressure, no judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bipolar disorder causes recurring mood episodes that move between elevated (manic or hypomanic) and low (depressive) states, impacting energy, sleep, thinking, and behavior.
Diagnosis is made by a clinician based on symptom history, clinical interviews, and ruling out medical or substance causes; there is no single laboratory test.
Symptoms may fluctuate across the lifespan and can be affected by stress or life changes; early treatment supports better long-term outcomes.
Medications may require adjustment over time; clinicians monitor effectiveness and side effects to optimize treatment.