How Long Does a Bipolar Episode Last?

Bipolar disorder is a form of mental illness that occurs when an individual cycles between moods of extreme of euphoria, called mania, and depression. There is no cure for bipolar disorder, however there is a variety of treatment options available to lessen the length and disruptive effects the various cycles can have on a patient's life.

Manic Episodes

• Manic episodes are characterized by extreme confidence, creative flights of ideas, and engagement in reckless, impulsive, or promiscuous behavior. Physically, individuals in manic states have a reduced need for food and sleep and an increased libido.

Duration of Manic Episodes

• Manic episodes need to last for at least two weeks to be clinically diagnosed. They can last for up to four months if not managed with treatment.

Depressive Episodes

• During a depressive episode, a bipolar patient can feel a pervasive sense of sadness, anger, hopelessness, and low self esteem. Physically, a depressive individual will experience constant fatigue, muscle aches, food cravings and loss of libido.

Duration of a Depressive Episode

• Like manic episodes, depressive episodes need to persist for two weeks to be classifiable. However, they can last significantly longer than manic episodes and continue for up to nine months if left untreated.

Treatment

• The primary forms of treatment for bipolar disorder include anti-depressants, mood stabilizers, and anti-psychotics. While no treatment can cure the condition, individuals can work out a regimen with their physicians to shorten both the severity and length of the episodes to less than a few weeks.