Bipolar disorder can be difficult to recognise and accurately diagnose because many of its symptoms overlap with other types of mental illness such as anxiety, depression and schizophrenia.

Recognising symptoms of bipolar disorder and getting checked out by a doctor is important. The earlier a person is diagnosed, the quicker they are able to receive appropriate treatment.  For more information click on treatment and self help.

A person with bipolar disorder will have symptoms of both depression and mania at different times.

The lists of symptoms below will not provide a diagnosis - only a doctor can do that. They will however, help you understand if you, or someone close to you, may have symptoms of bipolar disorder. If you have concerns please consult a doctor.

If you notice any behavioural changes that last for more than two weeks in close family or friends, then it is worth asking if the person may be depressed.

Common behaviour associated with depression includes:

 moodiness that is out of character
 increased irritability and frustration
 finding it hard to take minor personal criticisms
 spending less time with friends and family
 loss of interest in food, sex, exercise or other pleasurable activities
 being awake throughout the night
 increased alcohol and drug use
 staying home from work or school
 increased physical health complaints like fatigue or pain
 slowing down of thoughts and actions.

Common behaviour associated with mania includes:

 increased energy
 irritability
 overactivity 
 being reckless or taking unnecessary risks (e.g. driving fast or dangerously)
 increased spending
 increased sex drive
 racing thoughts
 rapid speech 
 decreased sleep
 grandiose ideas
 hallucinations and/or delusions.

Some people with bipolar disorder also have symptoms of psychosis. These include seeing or hearing things/people that are not there (hallucinations), feeling everyone is against them (paranoia) and having beliefs that are not based on reality (delusions).

If symptoms of bipolar disorder are left untreated, they can have a big impact on the life of the person with the illness, and on the lives of families and friends. Untreated symptoms of bipolar disorder can lead to: 

  marriage problems 
  family problems 
  financial problems
 difficulties becoming and staying employed
 drug and alcohol use
 anger management problems
 suicide.

To read about the personal experiences of people with bipolar disorder, their families and friends go to the personal experiences section of this website.