Bipolar disorder is a mental illness caused by abnormalities in the key regions of the brain which are crucial to emotions.  Worldwide, this abnormality afflicts almost 2.25 percent of the population or about six million in the U.Ss.

 How does one recognize the disorder? What are the bipolar disorder signs?  Years of studies by psychiatrists have led to the discovery of certain common symptoms seen in individuals with bipolar disorder.

 Since the disorder is characterized by mood swings from the manic to the depressive pole, scientists have categorized the appearance of symptoms based on both categories.  The very first symptom of mania or the emotions involved in a manic episode is hyperactivity. The patient will seem very restless and will have surges of energy which will make him very active.  They will appear to be in a very high and elated mood.  They behave excessively well and seem too good- natured to be true.  Another symptom is the high degree of irritation the patients display.  They will speak very rapidly as if under some pressure or some unseen force is pushing them to speak faster.  Their mind also keeps flitting from one idea to another idea.

 Another bipolar disorder sign, patients display an inability to concentrate on any task for more than a few minutes or short time span.  Moreover, they are very distracted and unfocused. There is another very important symptom - they feel they require only a few hours of sleep. They sleep very fitfully and cannot rest for more than a few hours. 

 Another significant bipolar disorder sign is how they begin to believe in their own superior powers or abilities.  They will behave unrealistically and try to establish that they are right even though they may be wrong in that situation.  Besides, their capacity to judge becomes very poor and they go on high spending sprees.  At times, they even become substance abusers especially cocaine, alcohol and medicines which will help them sleep better. 

 Another bipolar disorder sign which is very irritating to the observers is their aggressive and almost provocative nature. They intrude on others privacy and become very obstinate and overpowering. They will not accept that the episode they are experiencing is abnormal. They will live in denial of the disorder.

Among the main symptoms of depression are anxiety, hopelessness, pessimism and loss of confidence.  They will not show any interest or pleasure in activities.  There is decreased energy level, fatigue, difficulty in concentration, loss of memory and irritation. Patients displaying any of these symptoms should take preventive intervention and undergo treatment at the earliest. 

Resources:

http://www.sign.ac.uk/pdf/sign82.pdf