The Stages of Bipolar

• Bipolar disorder is distinguished by moods that swing from high to low with great extremes, and that can last from a week to many months. Your life can be negatively affected by not being able to get along with your family, go to work or do things you need to do in everyday life. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are solutions with therapy and prescription drugs to help keep you balanced to function in life.
  
  

Hypomania

• The first stage of bipolar is referred to as "hypomania" You can be feeling high and have a plethora of ideas that come quick and fast. You will ride a wide range of feelings and emotions over a short period of time, and often feel out of control. You could feel very euphoric and invincible, as if you can conquer the world. This particular stage is not nearly as severe as a complete manic episode, and may occur occasionally and last for short periods of time.
  
  

Manic Phase

• The signs and symptoms of this stage can vary a great deal, and everyone acts differently when experiencing this phase. You can feel extreme optimism and tremendously high self-esteem. You may be extremely aggressive, talk non-stop and feel agitated, all within a short period of time. Some of the dangers are possible reckless behavior, spending sprees, drug abuse, increased sex drive and decreased need for sleep. Without treatment this phase can last several months.
  
  

Depressive Phase

• This is the down phase of bipolar disease, when life can feel very bleak. You can experience a persistent feeling of sadness, helplessness or worthlessness. You may display irritability. You may experience extreme changes, from being ravenous to having a total lack of interest in food. You can feel as if you do not want to get out of bed and face life, and yet falling asleep and staying asleep are extremely difficult.
  
  

Types of Bipolar

• There are several classifications for different types of episodes of bipolar. Some people have occasional bouts with both the manic and depressive state that last for short periods. Cyclothymia is considered the mildest form of bipolar disorder: you will have mood swings but they will not be nearly as long or severe as a total bipolar episode, according to the Mayo Clinic.