In a case study of over 200 people with bipolar I disorder, the median length of a manic episode was determined to be 13 weeks. However, bipolar I manic episodes can also be as short as one week. Individuals who seek professional treatment for their symptoms are more likely to experience shorter episodes of mania.
Planning with loved ones
Making a support plan with family and friends may help a person with bipolar disorder reduce the impact of irritability. A support plan can include: sharing triggers of irritability and anger. listing calming strategies that help.
In the manic phase of bipolar disorder, it's common to experience feelings of heightened energy, creativity, and euphoria. If you're experiencing a manic episode, you may talk a mile a minute, sleep very little, and be hyperactive. You may also feel like you're all-powerful, invincible, or destined for greatness.
The manic phase of bipolar disorder may include: feeling very happy, elated or overjoyed. talking very quickly. feeling full of energy.
After a manic or hypomanic episode you might: Feel very unhappy or ashamed about how you behaved. Have made commitments or taken on responsibilities that now feel unmanageable. Have only a few clear memories of what happened during your episode, or none at all.
A “bipolar meltdown” is, much like “bipolar anger,” a very stigmatizing phrase, and not something that really exists. The phrase “bipolar meltdown” could refer to a bipolar person having a manic episode or being in a depressed state.
Arguments with your spouse, chilly weather, grief — a number of scenarios may provoke bipolar mania or depression. Certain medications, seasonal changes, and alcohol could trigger bipolar mood episodes, experts say. Here's why. Bipolar disorder is characterized by unusual shifts in mood and energy.
Whether you fear never getting “better,” being abandoned by your loved ones or even fear the “good days” with bipolar disorder, your experience with fear is not only valid, but most likely common among others in the bipolar community.
Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness that causes unusual shifts in mood, ranging from extreme highs (mania or “manic” episodes) to lows (depression or “depressive” episode).
Symptoms of a manic episode
Having an abnormally high level of activity or energy. Feeling extremely happy or excited — even euphoric. Not sleeping or only getting a few hours of sleep but still feeling rested. Having inflated self-esteem, thinking you're invincible.
No two people with bipolar disorder share the same thoughts or experiences, but there are some common thought patterns among most folks who have it. This includes cyclical thinking, manic and/or depressive episodes, suicidal ideation, and psychosis.
Managing a Manic Episode
Practice relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce stress and promote feelings of calmness. Engage in physical activity: Physical activity can help release endorphins, among other benefits, which can improve your mood.
Individuals with bipolar disorder may have a heightened sense of self-confidence and a reduced filter in their speech during manic episodes. This can cause them to speak harshly and say things they may not mean or fully consider the implications of.
Manipulation isn't a formal symptom of bipolar disorder, although some people with the condition may exhibit this behavior. In some cases, manipulative behavior is a result of living with another mental health condition, such as personality disorders, substance use disorders, or trauma.
It can be distressing to see a loved one experiencing a manic episode, but there are some ways you can try to help. Stay calm. Respond calmly and gently; avoid arguing with or confronting your loved one about their beliefs or behaviors. Learn about anosognosia.
All kinds of psychotic symptoms may occur among patients with BD, though grandiose, persecutory, and referential delusions, auditory verbal hallucinations or hearing voices, and visual hallucinations are particularly common[2,8,10].
Don't take comments or behavior personally. During periods of high energy, a person often says and does things that he or she would not usually say or do. This can include focusing on negative aspects of others. If needed, stay away from the person and avoid arguments.
These mood episodes cause symptoms that last a week or two, or sometimes longer. During an episode, the symptoms last every day for most of the day. Feelings are intense and happen with changes in behavior, energy levels, or activity levels that are noticeable to others.