Living with Bipolar Disorder

Shannon Coulson
May 21, 2025
2 min read

ChatGPT said:

Living with bipolar disorder can feel like an emotional rollercoaster—swinging between intense highs and deep lows. The experience is different for everyone, but here’s what many people with bipolar disorder commonly describe:

1. Mania or Hypomania (the highs)

During manic or hypomanic episodes, people often feel:

Euphoric or unusually energetic – Everything may seem exciting or meaningful.
Racing thoughts – Ideas come quickly, making it hard to focus or sleep.
Decreased need for sleep – You might sleep only a few hours or none at all and still feel wired.
Inflated self-esteem – A sense of invincibility, grandiosity, or unrealistic plans.
Impulsivity – Risky behaviors like overspending, reckless driving, or unprotected sex can occur.
Irritability or agitation – Sometimes, instead of feeling good, mania feels restless or angry.

People may feel unstoppable, but the consequences of manic behavior often catch up later—emotionally, financially, or socially.

2. Depression (the lows)

During depressive episodes, the world can feel overwhelmingly heavy:

Deep sadness or emptiness – Often without a clear reason.
Lack of motivation – Simple tasks like getting out of bed can feel impossible.
Hopelessness or guilt – Some feel like a burden or believe they’ll never get better.
Physical exhaustion – Even with lots of sleep, fatigue is common.
Suicidal thoughts – These may occur during deep depressive episodes.

Unlike regular sadness, bipolar depression can feel immobilizing and persistent.

3. The In-Between

Some people have periods of stability—feeling like themselves again.
Others feel a constant sense of instability, like they’re waiting for the next shift.
Mixed episodes (depression with energy or agitation) are especially confusing and dangerous.

4. Social and Personal Impact

Relationships may suffer due to unpredictable mood shifts.
Work or school can be hard to maintain.
Many feel misunderstood or stigma, especially if they don’t "look sick."
There's often a fear of losing control or being judged.

5. Hope and Management

Despite the challenges, many people with bipolar disorder live full, meaningful lives. With the right treatment and support:

Mood stabilizers and therapy help manage symptoms.
Structure, sleep, and self-awareness can prevent relapses.
Support networks—family, friends, or support groups—make

a huge difference.