• bipolar

  • Signs and symptoms

    Manic phase of bipolar disorder

    • Euphoria
    • Extreme optimism
    • Inflated self-esteem
    • Poor judgment
    • Rapid speech
    • Racing thoughts
    • Aggressive behavior
    • Agitation or irritation
    • Increased physical activity
    • Risky behaviour
    • Spending sprees or unwise financial choices
    • Increased drive to perform or achieve goals
    • Increased sex drive
    • Decreased need for sleep
    • Inability to concentrate
    • Careless or dangerous use of drugs or alcohol
    • Frequent absences from work or school
    • Delusions or a break from reality (psychosis)
    • Poor performance at work or school


    Depressive phase of bipolar disorder

    • Sadness
    • Hopelessness
    • Suicidal thoughts or behaviour
    • Anxiety
    • Guilt
    • Sleep problems
    • Low appetite or increased appetite
    • Fatigue
    • Loss of interest in daily activities
    • Problems concentrating
    • Irritability
    • Frequent absences from work or school
    • Poor performance at work or school

    If you suspect that you or someone you know is suffering from bipolar disorder, seek help right away. See your family doctor who can then refer you accordingly to get the help that you need. Or, you can contact CHAT for an assessment. The earlier you are diagnosed and begin treatment, the better your chances of getting better and staying well.