A lot of media attention has been placed on bipolar disorder in recent years, and this has caused it to become a buzzword that is often utilized incorrectly. For example, many people have been inaccurately accused of being bipolar by their significant other for exhibiting behavior that their partner deems to be emotionally or mentally unsavory. However, this does not diminish the fact that 5.7 million Americans are currently battling this medical condition, and it is also important to note that the U.S. has a much higher percentage of cases than most other countries.
What are the Most Common Bipolar Symptoms?
There are multiple different types of bipolar disorder, and this can be confusing to people who are attempting to figure out whether they actually have a mental illness. Fortunately, there are a few common bipolar symptoms that can help you determine whether you need to talk to a psychiatrist or simply take a relaxing vacation. When considering these symptoms, it is vital to be aware that bipolar patients will experience them in cycles that alternate between highs and lows.
- Poor concentration
- Over sleeping or insomnia
- Extremely low or inflated self-esteem
- Very low or high energy levels
- Racing thoughts
- Impulsiveness
- Lack of interest in typical activities
- Helplessness
- Suicidal thoughts
If you have any combination of these issues, it is a good idea to seek medical attention. Otherwise, you are most likely simply dealing with the normal level of stress that can be caused by everyday life.