What is Bipolar?

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health problem and is sometimes known as manic depression. If you are affected by bipolar disorder you may experience periods where they feel very happy or ‘manic’ and then episodes where you feel very low or depressed which seem like extreme mood swings. These episodes can last for a few days or even weeks.

Some people with bipolar disorder do not have symptoms all the time. You may go for periods of time feeling well and then at other times will experience extreme mood swings. Some young people may experience other symptoms such as psychosis which is when you see or believe things that are not there or real.

Other symptoms during manic episodes include feeling irritable, talking a lot, racing thoughts, over confidence, increased activity ie doing a lot, not needing to sleep, behaving in ways that can get you into trouble, difficulty concentrating and lack of personal care.

Other symptoms during depressive episodes include low mood, decreased energy, disturbed sleep, decreased appetite and thoughts of self-harm.

Bipolar disorder is not a common mental health problem and it is quite rare in children. It affects 1 in 100 people and usually starts when a young person is between 15 and 19 years-old. It is a serious mental health problem but with careful monitoring and the right treatment, you can lead a 'normal' life. People who have had bipolar disorder for a number of years will recognise the start of an up or down phase and know to get the right treatment when this happens.

Celebrities such as Kerry Katona and Catherine Zeta Jones have publically spoken out about their experiences of bipolar disorder to dispel some of the myths around the illness and show that people who have the disorder can be successful and lead ‘normal’ lives. The soap opera Eastenders has run several storylines about bipolar disorder with Jean and Stacey Slater to try and raise awareness of the issue.

Just because you have some or even all of these symptoms it does not necessarily mean you have bi-polar disorder. If you are worried you should talk to someone you trust who can support you in getting help. If you go to your GP they can help to work out if you have bipolar disorder. See the next section for more information about getting help.