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The very first step in dealing with bipolar disorder and those that have it is to get a good understanding of the symptoms. There are four different type of mood episodes, each with their own unique symptoms.

Mania

* Person feels all-powerful. May have hallucinations or delusions of grandeur.
* Euphoria - feels excessively optimistic, on top of the world.
* Extremely irritable - angry with aggressive or provocative actions.
* Restless - unable to concentrate, easily distracted.
* Unusually talkative - talks fast, feels a need to keep talking.
* Less need for sleep - goes for days on very little or no sleep.
* High risk behavior - pleasure seeking, involvement in high risk actions like sex, drugs, gambling, etc.
* Extremely energetic - feelings of creativity and increased productiveness.
* Aggressive behavior - rudeness, causes trouble.
* Poor judgment - reckless, impulsive, no idea of abnormal behavior.

Hypomania

* Milder form of mania - less severe, not as difficult to function normally.
* Euphoria - feels productive and energetic.
* Can do day-t0-day activities - no delusions or hallucinations.
* Very agreeable - may seem to be in an usually good mood.
* Often turns spirals into a full-blown manic episode, followed by major depression.

Depression

* Fatigue - loss of energy, may move and speak slowly.
* Depressed - hopeless, sad, feels empty.
* Loses interest in previous pleasurable activities - sex, hobbies, social activities.
* Restless - unable to sit still, nervousness.
* Change in sleep pattern - oversleeps or has insomnia.
* Weight and appetite changes - may have significant weight gain or loss.
* Problems with memory - can’t concentrate, difficulty making decisions.
* Feelings of worthlessness - very critical and hard on themself, dislikes self.

Mixed Episodes (Mania and Depression)