Bipolar Disorder, Type 1

Bipolar disorder is characterized by periods of mania and depression. An individual may have more depressive episodes than mania or vice versa In between either episode, there may be a period of normal mood. However, everyone experiences patters differently. For instance, rapid cycling is when a person repeatedly swings from mania to depression quickly without normal mood periods. Another person may experience “mixed states”, where depression and mania occur together. This can look like someone with increased activity levels with depressed mood.

Facts & Statistics

• 0.6% chance of acquiring it in a lifetime
• Sub-threshold subtype (just missing cut off, but still impacted) – 1.4% chance
• 2-7% may develop mania in their lifetime if they have a first degree relative with Bipolar
• 25 years old - typical average age of onset
• 60% are diagnosed prior to age 20 in the United States
• 25-30% may have symptoms before 13 years old
• Equal prevelance among men and women
• Depressive episodes are more common
• For every episode of mania someone with Bipolar I has, they will have 3 episodes of depression.
• The length someone is in depression is longer than the length they are in mania

Symptoms during manic episodes

• During manic episodes
• Persistent and increased activity or energy above and beyond what is typical of that individual
• excessive feelings of happiness, elation, or joy
• talking very quickly
• feeling self-important
• feeling full of great new ideas and having important plans
• Distracted easily
• Increased irritability and agitation
• Psychotic symptoms, including delusions, hallucinations, or disorganized thinking
• Less need for sleep
• taking a lot of risk with their body, finances, or relationships

Symptoms in children

• Irritability
• Excessive mood swings
• Hyperactivity
• Restlessness