Bipolar Disorder

This information is general and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for advice from a qualified health professional.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition that causes significant mood changes. People with bipolar disorder experience periods of intense highs (mania or hypomania) and periods of intense lows (depression), often with periods of stable mood in between.

These mood changes are different from the normal ups and downs everyone experiences. They can disrupt daily life, relationships, work and study. Around 1 in 50 Australians has bipolar disorder. It often first develops during the teenage years or early adulthood.

With treatment, many people with bipolar disorder manage their condition well and live full, meaningful lives.

Types of bipolar disorder

• Bipolar I: Involves episodes of mania (extreme highs lasting at least a week) as well as depressive episodes. Mania can include psychosis.
• Bipolar II: Involves periods of hypomania (less extreme highs) and depressive episodes. It does not involve full mania.
• Cyclothymic disorder: A milder but chronic form, with mood changes that are less severe but persistent.

Common experiences and everyday impacts

During a manic or hypomanic episode, a person might experience:

• Feeling euphoric, very happy or irritable
• Increased energy and activity, with a reduced need for sleep
• Racing thoughts and rapid speech
• Impulsive or risky behaviour, such as excessive spending
• In mania, delusions or hallucinations (psychosis)

During a depressive episode, a person might experience:

• Low mood and lack of motivation
• Loss of interest in usual activities
• Changes in sleep and appetite
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• In some cases, suicidal thoughts

The impact on daily life can be significant, but the right treatment and support make a real difference.

Support options and seeking professional help

If you're concerned about extreme mood changes, your GP is a good first step. They can provide a mental health assessment and refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist. Treatment usually involves:

• Medication, such as mood stabilisers, prescribed and monitored by a psychiatrist
• Psychological therapy, such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT)
• Lifestyle changes, including healthy sleep habits and stress management
• Ongoing monitoring and a relapse prevention plan

It's important to take medication exactly as prescribed and to talk to your doctor before making any changes. Never stop or change medication without medical advice.

You can also contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 (24/7) for free support.

Supporting someone with bipolar disorder

If someone you know has bipolar disorder, you can help by:

• Learning about the condition so you understand what they're going through
• Encouraging them to stick with their treatment plan
• Being aware of early warning signs of mania or depression
• Listening without judgement, especially during difficult periods
• Looking after your own wellbeing and seeking support if you need it

If the person appears to be at risk of self-harm or suicide, don't leave them alone. Call Triple Zero (000) or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Reliable Australian resources

• Healthdirect — Bipolar Disorder
• Black Dog Institute — Bipolar Disorder
• SANE Australia — Bipolar Disorder

Sources

• Healthdirect Australia — Bipolar disorder (healthdirect.gov.au/bipolar-disorder)
• Black Dog Institute — Bipolar disorder (blackdoginstitute.org.au)
• SANE Australia — Bipolar disorder (sane.org)

Need support? Contact your GP, a mental health professional, or call Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).