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Bipolar Disorder Symptoms: What to Watch for and When to Seek Help
- hr8746
- Jun 28
- 2 min read
Compassionate Care at Caritas Behavioral Health Services – Columbia, MD
Bipolar disorder doesn’t always begin with visible highs and lows. Sometimes, it looks like bursts of productivity followed by long periods of exhaustion.
At Caritas Behavioral Health Services in Columbia, MD, we help individuals and families spot the signs early—before life disruptions occur.
On this page:
1. Recognizing Manic and Hypomanic Symptoms
Mania may feel like a superpower—until it spirals. Hypomania is milder, but still disruptive.
⚡ Racing thoughts, pressured speech, impulsive behavior
🛏 Decreased need for sleep without fatigue
💸 Overspending, risky behavior, or grand ideas
😠 Heightened irritability or agitation
Manic episodes can last a week or longer. Hypomania may last a few days but still cause fallout.
2. Understanding Depressive Symptoms in Bipolar Disorder
Depression in bipolar disorder often lasts longer and feels heavier than typical sadness.
😔 Persistent low mood, apathy, or hopelessness
💤 Sleeping too much or too little
🚫 Withdrawal from friends or enjoyable activities
💭 Suicidal thoughts or inability to function
These signs often go overlooked—especially in teens or high-functioning adults.
3. When Symptoms Start to Interfere
Not everyone knows when it’s “bad enough” to seek help. Here’s a general guide.
🧠 Mood shifts affect your relationships or work
🛑 You feel out of control during certain phases
🗓 You notice patterns—but can’t stop them
🔄 You’re stuck in cycles that never stabilize
At Caritas, we treat symptoms early—so you don’t have to wait for a crisis.
4. Next Steps Toward Support
Diagnosis isn’t about labels—it’s about understanding and healing.
📅 Track your mood, sleep, and energy levels
🧑⚕️ Get an evaluation from a psychiatric professional
💊 Consider medication or lifestyle changes
💬 Try therapy to build insight and coping skills
Bipolar disorder is manageable—with the right guidance and support.
Conclusion
If you’re noticing extremes in mood or behavior, you’re not alone—and it doesn’t have to stay that way. Caritas Behavioral Health is here to support you with compassion and clinical expertise.
👉Contact us today to start a path toward clarity and control.
Caritas Behavioral Health Services LLC is Ready to Help
At Caritas Behavioral Health Services LLC, we're all about supporting you in recognizing when it's time to seek out a pro. You've got this, and we've got you.
