Description of Bipolar 1 Disorder

Bipolar I disorder is a severe type of mental illness characterized by episodes of abnormally elevated moods called manias which may alternate with episodes of depression. The disorder usually begins in a person's teens or early twenties. It differs from bipolar II disorder, which has cycles of mania and depression, with the depression typically being more extreme and longer-lasting, and the mania not as intense.

Manic Episodes

• During a manic episode in bipolar I disorder, the person becomes hyperactive, has an unrealistically inflated self-image and may have a very heightened sex drive.

Manic Behavior

• The manic episodes cause the person to behave erratically, doing irrational actions such as spending an entire savings account or having sex indiscriminately.

Severe Episodes

• In severe manic periods, a person loses touch with reality, becoming delusional and behaving in bizarre ways.

Depressive Episodes

• Depressive episodes in bipolar I disorders may not be as severe as in bipolar II disorders, although there still may be low energy and activity levels, along with moodiness.

Time Frame

• Manic episodes typically last several weeks or months. Many people with bipolar I disorder experience long periods where they have no mania or depression symptoms.

Treatment

• The disorder requires treatment with mood stabilizers and anti-psychotic drugs during manic episodes.