The Emotional Rollercoaster: What Bipolar Disorder Feels Like

Young adulthood should be a time of exploration and growth, but for those living with bipolar disorder, every day can feel like an unpredictable rollercoaster. The intense highs of mania can quickly shift to the crushing lows of depression, creating a whirlwind of emotions that can be downright debilitating. Living with bipolar disorder can severely impact family and personal relationships, job or school performance, and overall well-being.  

With professional treatment, however, young adults can learn to manage their symptoms and build a fulfilling life. Support from mental health professionals can provide the tools needed to navigate the ups and downs, and build effective coping skills.  

What You’ll Learn

• What is bipolar disorder? 
• What does bipolar disorder feel like during the manic and depressive phases of the disorder? 
• How long do alternating manic and depressive episodes last?  
• How is bipolar disorder treated? 

What Is Bipolar Disorder? 

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by episodes of mania which may sometimes be accompanied by periods of depression. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the average age of onset is 25, though it can also emerge during adolescence. Around three percent of Americans have bipolar disorder, and it affects both men and women equally. 

People with bipolar disorder experience manic episodes; though for some, manic episodes may be milder (hypomanic), and they may also experience depression. There are several types of conditions classified within the category of bipolar disorder: 

• Bipolar I: According to the DSM 5, a person must meet criteria for at least one manic episode to have Bipolar I. 
• Bipolar II: A person must meet criteria for at least one manic or hypomanic episode as well as at least one major depressive episode to be diagnosed with Bipolar II. 
• Cyclothymia or cyclothymic disorder: Those with cyclothymia experience severe mood swings characteristic of mania and depression, but their episodes don’t always meet the full criteria for manic, hypomanic, or depressive episodes. 
• Specified bipolar and bipolar-related disorders: People with these conditions do not always meet the criteria for bipolar disorder and cyclothymia because their symptoms are not always as severe or generally last for shorter periods. 
• Unspecified bipolar and bipolar-related disorders: Individuals with these conditions experience clinically significant distress or impaired functioning due to their symptoms, but they don’t meet specific criteria for bipolar disorder or cyclothymia. 

Only treatment professionals can diagnose a person with bipolar disorder or a related condition. Though bipolar disorder exists on a spectrum based on severity and duration of certain symptoms, all of its forms can disrupt a person’s daily life and lead to challenges with daily functioning. However, with treatment and support, people with bipolar disorder can lead healthy, functional lives. 

What Bipolar Disorder Feels Like 

What does bipolar disorder feel like from the inside? Experiencing bipolar disorder as a young adult can be complex and overwhelming. The combination of intense emotional highs (mania or hypomania) followed by extreme lows (depression), can significantly impact every aspect of their daily lives, from relationships to academic or job performance. Here are some common feelings and experiences associated with bipolar disorder: 

Emotional Extremes  

It’s not uncommon to experience such extreme mood swings with bipolar disorder that you feel as though your emotions are beyond your control. During manic phases, people might feel euphoric, full of energy, and invincible, which can lead to impulsive decisions, such as overspending, substance use, or risky sexual behavior.  

Conversely, depressive phases can bring feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, despair, and unfortunately suicidal thoughts. During this period, the person may retreat from friends and family, or when they are around them will seem irritable or short-tempered. Excessive sleep and changes in appetite are also common during the depression phase. 

Isolation and Loneliness  

The unpredictable nature of mood swings can make it difficult to maintain friendships, romantic relationships, and family connections. This can cause loved ones who might not understand the disorder to withdraw, leaving the affected person to feel isolated and lonely. 

Struggles with Identity  

Young adulthood should be a time for self-discovery, but bipolar disorder can make it difficult to complete routine daily tasks let alone find what makes you happy in life. The day-to-day struggles can cause people with bipolar disorder to question their identity, often feeling defined by their condition rather than what they have to offer to the world. 

Academic and Career Challenges  

Extreme fluctuations in mood can affect concentration, motivation, and productivity, all important qualities for academic and career growth. Young adults may struggle to keep up with academic or work responsibilities, leading to stress, feelings of inadequacy, and loss of employment. 

A Sense of Not Being Understood  

There can be a stigma associated with mental health conditions, and young adults may face judgment or lack of understanding from friends, family, or society at large. This can lead to feelings of shame or reluctance to seek help. Bipolar disorder doesn’t go away on its own, and the symptoms are difficult to control on one’s own. It is important to seek help before symptoms worsen.  

Inability to Self-Regulate 

Many young adults with bipolar disorder long for emotional stability and a sense of normalcy. They lack the skills to manage their emotions effectively, therefore feel frustrated and hopeless at times. This is why it’s important that you or someone you know seek early treatment. There is help, and you don’t have to live this way.     

Key Features of Bipolar Disorder  

As we’ve discussed in this article, bipolar disorder is defined as having severe shifts in mood, from emotional highs (mania or hypomania) to extreme lows (depression). Let’s take a closer look at each phase and what bipolar disorder feels like in each of them.  

What Is a Manic or Hypomanic Episode? 

Manic episodes though often described as “euphoric,” are no picnic. People experiencing mania often feel paranoid, jittery, unable to sleep, and unable to stem a tide of racing thoughts and grandiose delusions. A total break with reality can be deemed a psychotic episode. 

A manic episode lasts for at least a week, and a hypomanic episode lasts for at least four days. During this time, a person may engage in high-risk behaviors, from sexual indiscretions to risky financial investments, substance use, or shopping sprees. An escalation of symptoms may require hospitalization to prevent any harm to oneself or others. 

Signs of a Manic or Hypomanic Episode  

Manic episodes last at least a week, and severe episodes may require hospitalization to prevent self-harm or harm to others. Hypomanic episodes last at least four days and may include: 

• Inflated self-esteem 
• Rapid speech 
• Racing thoughts 
• Increase in risk-taking behaviors 
• Delusional ideas 
• Easily distracted 
• Little or no need for sleep 
• High energy 
• Easily irritated or agitated 

What Is a Major Depressive Episode? 

A major depressive episode is a prolonged period of depressed mood and decreased daily functioning. Thoughts of suicide and self-harm may increase if symptoms are severe. It may be difficult for a person to think clearly, sleep restfully, and interact normally with others. In relation to bipolar disorder, it often occurs as the “crash” after a manic or hypomanic episode, or it may precede those episodes.  

People with Bipolar II have serious mood swings that take them from the heights of euphoria, racing thoughts, and grandiose ideas to the depths of sadness, fatigue, brain fog, and hopelessness—repeatedly. The alternating nature and severity of these episodes can cause deep distress and interfere with daily functioning. 

Signs of a Major Depressive Episode 

A major depressive episode can last for at least two weeks and impedes a person’s ability to function normally, affecting their social life, work, and daily activities. Here are some signs to look for: 

• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities 
• Fatigue 
• Brain fog 
• Inability to concentrate 
• Insomnia or oversleeping 
• Weight loss or weight gain 
• Feelings of hopelessness 
• Prolonged sadness 
• Increased irritability 
• Thoughts of death or suicide 

Psychotic Symptoms: Delusions and Hallucinations 

People with severe symptoms of bipolar disorder are at risk of experiencing psychosis, which involves a clear break with reality and an escalation of delusions or hallucinations. Therapy, medication management, and support from others often helps those with bipolar disorder reduce their risk of having any psychotic symptoms. Detecting early signs of bipolar episodes and getting therapeutic assistance can prevent symptoms from getting out of hand or requiring hospitalization.  

Additionally, substance use can increase the risk of bipolar episodes and potential psychotic symptoms. For those with bipolar disorder and a substance use issue, treating both conditions at the same time offers the best chance of long-term recovery.  

What Types of Therapy Are Used to Treat Bipolar Disorder? 

The good news is bipolar disorder is very treatable, and a number of therapeutic approaches exist alongside medication to help people feel like themselves again. Here are some types of therapy used to treat bipolar disorder: 

• Family-Focused Therapy (FTT) includes the family and covers topics like communication, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and bipolar disorder education. 
• Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) focuses on recording personal rhythms and routines and observing their effects on symptoms and mood. The therapist and patient use these observations to create strategies for relational problem-solving and mood stabilization. 
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) involves identifying negative thought patterns and challenging them, teaching the patient to develop more adaptive thinking skills for emotional regulation and a better experience of life. 
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can involve both individual and group therapy, and patients learn mindfulness and acceptance skills as well as distress tolerance. 
• Group psychoeducation may include going through a mental health curriculum with a group therapist, hearing the stories of their peers with bipolar disorder, and receiving support while learning new information and skills. 
• Medication and individual sessions with a psychiatrist are also a common part of bipolar disorder treatment. A psychiatrist can assess the severity of a person’s symptoms and manage their medications as well as refer them to other types of therapy. 

Bipolar Disorder Treatment at Newport Institute 

If you or a loved one needs treatment for bipolar disorder, reach out to our team today. Our research-backed programs provide the care and expertise young people need to manage the highs and lows of this disorder.  

Our compassionate, whole-person approach supports young adults to lead a full life in recovery from bipolar disorder, as well as any co-occurring mental health conditions. Contact us today to get started. 

Frequently Asked Questions