Bipolar disorder is a medical condition that involves distinct mood episodes. It’s not something you can accurately diagnose yourself from online information alone. If you’re worried you might be bipolar, the most reliable next step is to speak with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms in context. What to look for (general information)
- Mood swings that are more severe, longer-lasting, or different from your typical ups and downs.
- Manic or hypomanic periods: unusually high energy, talkativeness, reduced need for sleep, racing thoughts, impulsive or risky behavior, inflated self-esteem, or being unusually distracted.
- Depressive periods: persistent sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating, or thoughts of self-harm.
- These mood states often cycle over weeks to months and can impair daily functioning, sleep, work, relationships, or judgment.
Important cautions
- Symptoms can overlap with other conditions (e.g., anxiety disorders, ADHD, substance use, thyroid issues). A proper assessment is essential.
- Bipolar I and Bipolar II differ in the intensity and duration of manic/hypomanic episodes, but both involve clear mood episodes plus periods of mood stability.
- A diagnosis typically requires a clinical interview, history of symptoms over time, and ruling out other causes or substances.
What you can do now
- Track your mood and symptoms: note dates, sleep patterns, energy levels, mood, activities, and any risky behaviors.
- Seek a primary care doctor or a mental health professional (psychiatrist or psychologist). If you have urgent thoughts of self-harm or feel in immediate danger, seek emergency help right away.
- Consider bringing: a mood diary, a list of past medications and responses, any family history of mood disorders, and notes about how long symptoms last and how they affect daily life.
- If you want a preliminary screening, a healthcare professional may use structured questionnaires (e.g., mood disorder checklists) as part of a comprehensive evaluation.
Resources and next steps
- If you’re in the U.S. or UK, you can start by scheduling an appointment with a GP or mental health service. In many places, community mental health clinics offer low-cost evaluations.
- If you’d like, I can help you prepare a brief summary of your symptoms to bring to your appointment (timing, duration, and impact), or help you find nearby mental health resources in your area.
Note: This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis. If you’d like, share your location and I can help identify local resources or helplines.
