10 Bipolar Disorder Symptoms

By dr. mera

Article Sources

Article Sources

• 1. Stephen Soreff, M. (2020, May 03). Bipolar Disorder. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/286342-overview

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Bipolar disorder is described as a group of conditions characterized by alternating episodes of mania and depression. Three main conditions fall within the bipolar disorder spectrum: Bipolar I Disorder (BPI), Bipolar II Disorder (BPII), and Cyclothymia. Usually, patients with BPI experience episodes of severe mania that may require hospitalization, whereas patients with BPII suffer from hypomanic episodes that result in less dramatic symptoms. On the other hand, people with cyclothymic disorder may experience hypomanic symptoms that are milder and develop over a larger period of time (usually 2 years).

The exact cause of bipolar disease is still unknown, nevertheless, researchers believe that there is a significant genetic component to it. People with a first-degree relative with bipolar disorder are 7 times more likely to suffer from this condition.¹Stephen Soreff, M. (2020, May 03). Bipolar Disorder. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/286342-overview The condition usually appears during early adulthood but it can be seen in people of all ages, including teenagers and even kids.

Psychotherapy and medications are very important to manage this condition and the treatment options will vary depending on the specific disorder and the current phase that the patient might be in (either mania or depression). Sadly, many patients with bipolar disorder have suicidal ideation and some of them actually try to harm themselves. Therefore, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms associated with this condition as soon as possible in order to get these people the help that they need.

1. Grandiosity

Our self-esteem is a crucial component of our personality. Many factors will shape the way that we see ourselves and will determine how confident we can be during different situations. Naturally, some people might have a personality that imposes and stands out compared to others, and this is perfectly normal. The problem comes when an individual develops problems with others due to a constant belief of superiority and greatness.

A grandiose behavior is a key finding in patients with a manic episode. They will usually feel invincible and superior to the rest of the world. They can act selfishly due to the increased self-esteem and it will usually cause them problems in their social and work environment.