Question: What is Bipolar I Disorder?
Answer: According to the definition outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), bipolar I disorder, considered the most severe form of this mental illness, is "characterized by one or more Manic or Mixed Episodes, usually accompanied by Major Depressive Episodes."
In a major manic episode the patient may become delusional and even suffer from hallucinations, which are symptoms of psychosis. If this occurs, the condition is called bipolar I with psychotic features. Only bipolar I disorder, by definition, can include such psychotic features. Bipolar I can seriously impair day-to-day functioning.
Other symptoms and characteristics of mania include:
- Grandiosity
- Decreased need for sleep
- Pressured speech
- Racing thoughts
- Distractibility
- Tendency to engage in behavior that could have serious consequences, such as spending recklessly or inappropriate sexual encounters
- Excess energy
Symptoms and characteristics of major depression include:
- Decreased energy
- Severe withdrawal from normal activities
- Weight loss or gain
- Despair
- Irritability
- Uncontrollable crying
- Thoughts of or attempts at suicide
