It is indeed difficult for the common person to differentiate between the various forms of mental disorders.  Media, like cinema have etched certain stereotypes by which we identify certain illness.  In reality it is essential that we should be able to recognize the symptoms of bipolar disorder from the symptoms of schizophrenia or other similar disorders.  The web has, of course, increased our access to know more about these subjects at the click of a button.  

Bipolar Disorder is often defined as a disorder of the moods of a person.  Whenever the mood swings from one end of the spectrum of high mood level to a very low trough of depression, then the basic diagnosis is bipolar disorder.  Then we need to zero in on the symptoms of bipolar disorder and signs associated with the disorder.

The extreme high mood level is called mania and the extreme low level is called depression.  If the mood disturbance is mild it is called hypomania .  So, each degree of mood disturbance is identified as a bipolar disorder type.  Hence, there is Bipolar I type, Bipolar II type or Cylcothymia, etc.  Whatever  the bipolar disorder type, the symptoms of bipolar disorder remain the same.

Observing the patient closely, one should watch if he feels very optimistic or unusually positive. Sometimes there could be irritability instead of optimism.  His beliefs may appear beyond his capabilities or be fanciful.  He may feel very energetic though he has been sleeping fitfully or sporadically.  He could also be speaking so fast that it becomes difficult for the listener to understand.  His thoughts are one-a-minute.  His mind keeps fleeting from one idea to the next.  He is unable to concentrate on anything for more than a few minutes.  He may even be unable to properly judge everyday functions like trying to pick up a hot pot from the stove. He becomes very impulsive and does things even before he has thought things through.  If you were to observe keenly some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder, you would also be able to recognize the severe forms of this disorder.

The extreme case of this disorder is the symptom called delusion and hallucination. It is this symptom that is often confused with the symptom of schizophrenia. It is when the individual reaches this extreme level that more than medical help is required because the tendencies of suicide and harmful action against others or self are possibilities.   Of all the symptoms of bipolar disorder, this symptom needs to be immediately acted upon. 

 Doctors would treat this disorder with high-impact drugs that would prevent the person from becoming aggressive and destructive.  It is therefore, essential that family and friends are aware of the symptoms of bipolar disorder and are able to convince the patient to submit to appropriate  and timely treatment.

Resources:

http://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/guide/bipolar-disorder-symptoms-types