Bipolar Disorder: Statistics, Causes, Signs, & Symptoms

Learn about bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a form of mental illness that is characterized by significant shifts in mood, energy levels, confidence, and related qualities. The two extremes of bipolar disorder are referred to as manic episodes and depressive episodes. Some people may also have hypomanic episodes, which are similar to but less intense than manic episodes.

During a manic episode, you may experience elevated mood, increased energy, heightened self-confidence, and apparent lack of need for sleep. During depressive episodes, you may experience persistent sadness, fatigue, low self-esteem, and a pervasive sense of helplessness or hopelessness.

The three most common types of bipolar disorder are bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, and cyclothymic disorder. These forms of bipolar disorder are differentiated by the presence, intensity, and duration of manic, hypomanic, and depressive episodes.

Statistics about bipolar disorder

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has reported the following about bipolar disorder in the United States:

• About 2.8% of all adults will struggle with bipolar disorder in a typical year.
• Bipolar disorder is most common among adults ages 18-29. About 4.7% of adults in this age group will struggle with bipolar disorder in an average year.

Bipolar disorder is slightly more common among men than among women. In a typical year, about 2.9% of adult men and 2.8% of adult women will experience this mental health disorder.

Our treatment center’s philosophy and benefits

At The Refuge, we always consider the whole person when we work with you to create your plan of care for your stay with us. Our compassionate, highly skilled treatment team continually evaluates your progress and works alongside you to ensure that all your needs are met – mind, body, and soul. Our rehab center believes in a holistic care approach that uses classical and evidenced-based treatments. When you come to The Refuge, you know you’re getting the best residential rehab care available.

Causes and risk factors for bipolar disorder

Your risk for developing bipolar disorder may be influenced by several factors, including the following:

• Having a family history of bipolar disorder
• Having a parent or sibling who has bipolar disorder or major depression
• Personal or family history of substance abuse and addiction
• Being separated, divorced, or widowed
• Living in a high-income nation

Common signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder

People who have bipolar disorder may experience manic (or hypomanic) episodes as well as depressive episodes. The following are common symptoms of these types of episodes:

Symptoms of manic or hypomanic episodes:

• Elevated mood
• Jittery, jumpy, or restless
• Significant boost in energy
• Racing thoughts, inability to remain focused on one topic
• Speaking very rapidly
• Needing little or no sleep
• Excessive self-confidence
• Acting impulsively and recklessly

Symptoms of depressive episodes:

• Persistent sense of sadness, helplessness, or hopelessness
• Excessive need for sleep
• Low energy
• Forgetfulness
• Diminished sense of self-esteem or self-worth
• Changes in appetite
• Self-harm
• Suicidal thoughts and actions

Effects of bipolar disorder

Untreated bipolar disorder can have a negative impact on many areas of your life. If you fail to get proper treatment for bipolar disorder, you may experience the following effects:

• Substance abuse and addiction
• Strained or ruined personal relationships
• Frequent absenteeism from school or work
• Substandard performance in school or at work
• Job loss
• Chronic unemployment
• Physical harm due to recklessness or impulsivity
• Arrest or incarceration due to recklessness or impulsivity
• Social withdrawal and isolation
• Self-harm
• Suicidal thoughts and actions

It is important to understand that bipolar disorder is a treatable condition. With effective professional treatment, you can avoid ongoing harm, learn to manage your symptoms, and experience improved quality of life.

Common co-occurring disorders with bipolar disorder

If you struggle with bipolar disorder, you may have an increased risk for several co-occurring mental health disorders, including the following:

• Anxiety disorders
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Intermittent explosive disorder (IED)
• Addiction