Bipolar I Disorder

According to the official US definition as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association, 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. If this occurs, the condition is called Bipolar I with Psychotic Features. Only Bipolar I disorder, by definition, can include these or other 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