Bipolar disorder is also known as manic depression. It is a medical condition that makes the person experience extreme mood swings. When left neglected, this condition can drive the person to take extreme steps such as self-harm or even suicide.
Despite the persistent awareness of bipolar disorder in both educational institutions and popular media, many still fail to see the severity and health risks involved in this condition. For this reason alone, it becomes very important to understand the symptoms, such as loss of speech, accelerated speech, agitation, etc., associated with bipolar disorder. This article will, therefore, list the symptoms of bipolar disorder in detail.
10 Most Common Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Listed below are 10 common symptoms that point towards bipolar characteristics of a person –
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Restlessness
One of the primary signs of bipolar disorder is restlessness. Restlessness, also called Psychomotor agitation, is a repetitive and unintentional movement. It is an “inner restlessness” that is associated with the psychiatric condition in most cases. People suffering from bipolar disorder constantly want to change their surroundings as they are unsatisfied with everything around them. This is what causes inner restlessness. However, the use of medications can also cause “outer restlessness” in the form of involuntary muscle movements.
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Accelerated Speech
Pressured or accelerated speech is among the common bipolar symptoms in men and women. It is primarily experienced when the person is undergoing a manic episode. A manic episode speeds up the person’s thinking process. As a result, the person feels that they are not able to express their thoughts fast enough as they suffer from finding the right words.
Also Read : How to tell if someone is Bipolar – The Signs and Symptoms of a Bipolar Disorder
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Lack of Sleep
A person with bipolar disorder also experiences sleep disturbances. Bipolar disorder can affect one’s sleep in many ways. These include insomnia, hypersomnia, delayed sleep phase syndrome, REM (rapid eye movement), sleep apnea, and more. During periods of mania, the individual can also go without sleep for weeks or even months.
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Overconfidence
Overconfidence leading to impulsive acts are signs of bipolar disorder as well. This condition causes exaggerated feelings of confidence and impulsivity, particularly when the individual is placed in a risky situation. The sense of superiority often causes them to make the wrong decision, which can also put their life at risk.
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Agitation
Agitation is one of the common bipolar symptoms in women and men. It can range from slight inner tension and unease from the surrounding environment to aggressive and violent behaviors. These people also feel nervous, anxious, and restless. Severe manic episodes can cause agitation that can even harm the suffering individual or people around them.
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Hopelessness
Both manic and depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder cause the person to feel less motivated. They feel their life is hopeless. In severe cases, this attitude also increases the risk of suicide. Hopelessness gives rise to suicidal thoughts as the individual with bipolar disorder feels his/her life to be worthless. They also remain unsatisfied with things around them, be it their work, education, family, or friends.
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Appetite Loss
Among the list of common signs of bipolar disorder, appetite loss is also one. Many people in the manic phase experience a sudden loss of appetite. Most times, it is because of forgetfulness, while other times, this is also because of an increased sense of contentment. Manic episodes can last for a long duration. Not eating adequate amounts of food during this time can cause severe health risks.
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Memory Loss
Brain fog or memory loss is also one of the symptoms of bipolar disorder. People with bipolar disorder have also stated that they suffer from short and long-term memory. Depressive and manic episodes are the main reason behind memory loss in these individuals. During these episodes, the individual operates at high speeds, thereby making it difficult to understand or grasp new information.
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Lowered Concentration
Lack of concentration or distraction is among the common bipolar symptoms in women and men. This is most commonly observed during manic and depressive episodes. The difficulty in concentration can make it hard for the person to function normally in their day-to-day life. This can hinder their studies and work. Other bipolar symptoms in men and women, like racing thoughts, increased agitation, and lack of sleep, also affect their concentration.
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Suicidal Thoughts
Reports have claimed that 30%-70% of suicide victims suffer from bipolar disorder. Thus, suicidal thoughts are the primary signs of bipolar disorder. It initially starts with self-harm and abuse. These people are constantly vocal about how they wish to end their life.
Also Read : 10 Signs of Bipolar Disorder
Conclusion
Most people neglect patients suffering from bipolar disorder. A complete blind eye is turned to their symptoms. The severity of the condition is not understood until the patient takes some extreme steps. Thus, immediate care is the only way to minimize the risks associated with bipolar disorder.
Dr. Anil Yadav is a reputed neuropsychiatrist in Gurgaon who has years of experience in treating patients with bipolar disorder. He, along with his team, uses updated modern amenities to provide effective results. The comfort and convenience of his treatments have helped many in controlling their bipolar symptoms.
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