In a major manic episode of Bipolar I Disorder 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 in Bipolar I Disorder include:
- Decreased energy
- Severe withdrawal from normal activities
- Weight loss or gain
- Despair
- Irritability
- Uncontrollable crying
- Thoughts of or attempts at suicide

