Bipolar disorder: highs and lows of mood
बाइपोलर डिसऑर्डर
Bipolar disorder causes episodes of mania (or hypomania) and depression, with normal periods in between.
Early treatment prevents damage to studies, career, finances and relationships.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Very high, cheerful or irritable mood for days
- Little need for sleep yet full of energy
- Talking fast, many ideas, big plans
- Overspending, risky decisions, anger outbursts
- Episodes of depression at other times
- Sometimes suspiciousness or religious/grand beliefs
Causes
- Strong genetic component — often runs in families
- Triggers: lack of sleep, stress, alcohol or drugs, stopping medicines
- Some antidepressants can trigger mania if bipolar is not recognised
Risk factors
- Bipolar disorder in a parent or sibling — the strongest risk factor
- Sleep loss, which can trigger mania
- Cannabis, alcohol or stimulant use
- Childbirth (risk of postpartum mood episodes)
How it is diagnosed
- Clear history of at least one manic or hypomanic episode — often best described by family
- Mood charting of sleep, energy and mood over weeks
- Baseline blood tests (kidney, thyroid, liver, sugar) before mood stabilisers
Classification: ICD-10 F31 · ICD-11 6A60, 6A61Bipolar type I / bipolar type II disorder.
Treatment options
- 1Mood stabilisers (and other medicines) to control and prevent episodes
- 2Regular blood tests when certain medicines are used
- 3Education for patient and family about early warning signs
- 4Regular sleep, no alcohol or drugs, stress management
- 5Long-term follow-up — most people live full, productive lives
Psychotherapy and counselling
- Psychoeducation about early warning signs and relapse plans
- Regular routine for sleep and activity (interpersonal and social rhythm therapy)
- Family-focused therapy to reduce conflict and improve support
Guidance for family
- Learn the person's early signs — less sleep, fast talk, overspending, irritability
- Keep money and vehicle keys safe during high phases if agreed in advance
- Mood stabilisers are long-term; stopping them suddenly often causes relapse
When to see a psychiatrist
- Sleep has dropped sharply with excess energy
- Spending, anger or risky behaviour is out of control
- Severe depression or suicidal thoughts
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Free self-assessment
A short screening in Hindi or English. Private — nothing is saved. Screening does not establish a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Can bipolar disorder be controlled?
Yes. With regular medicines and follow-up, most people stay stable for long periods.
Can I stop medicines when I feel well?
Not on your own — stopping suddenly is the commonest cause of relapse. Any change should be planned with your psychiatrist.
Can women with bipolar plan pregnancy?
Yes, with planning. Some medicines need to be changed before pregnancy, so discuss it early with your doctor.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.