Bipolar Disorder: Early Symptoms

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness that consists of depression and manic episodes and needs to be treated as soon as possible. A friend or family member can help those who may have bipolar disorder by noticing the early symptoms of this mental illness. Treatment for bipolar disorder can and should include prescribed medication, therapy and patience and support from friends and family members. If you suspect someone you know may have bipolar disorder, look for the early symptoms and get them to a psychiatrist as soon as possible.

Increased Energy

• A person who may have bipolar disorder may show early signs of increased energy. This can include less need for sleep, restlessness and an increase in certain activities.

Mood Swings

• If someone starts to have severe mood swings, they may have bipolar disorder. Mood swings can go from happy to sad to irritated and to extreme rage all in one day. If the person has extreme rage, be careful because they can be dangerous.

Speech Disruption

• A bipolar patient can show the early sign of speech disruption. Speech disruption can include rapid speech, incoherent speech, and going from one topic of discussion to another really fast.

Suicidal Thoughts

• Suicidal thoughts can be part of the depression phase of bipolar disorder. If a person with bipolar disorder starts talking about death and suicide, get them to seek professional help immediately.

Problems Concentrating

• Some people with bipolar disorder can have problems concentrating on projects they may be working on. They may start on one project and not be able to finish it and start on another one and not be able to finish it either. If this happens, they will not be able to do any kind of work or home projects and this can lead to severe depression and even being fired from their job.