Bipolar behavior is somewhat variable depending on the individual, but is always defined by at least two sets of characteristics that occur in a cyclical fashion. A person suffering from bipolar disorder usually experiences a low phase, where he or she may feel depressed or otherwise lacking in energy. This is usually countered by a high phase, where the person may feel invincible, happy, or energetic. People who suffer from bipolar disorder must experience both kinds of emotions as a criterion of their diagnosis. In practice, people exhibit a wide range of bipolar behaviors, but most can be classified in one of these two phases.
The low phase of bipolar behavior is characterized by depression. One of the most common characteristic of depressed bipolar behavior is loss of interest in activities the person otherwise enjoys. Additionally, he or she may change sleeping and eating patterns, have little energy, and feel unable to concentrate. To observers, the person usually appears to be extremely sad or disheartened.
Internally, the person may feel isolated. He or she may feel unable to get out of bed or participate in normal activities. The way in which these feelings are displayed differ depending on the individual, but usually, a person realizes that he or she feels depressed. Often, a part of the behavior common the low phase of bipolar behavior involves expressing feelings of hopelessness.
The high phase of bipolar behavior is characterized by mania. A person experiencing mania may behave erratically, and sometimes dangerously. He or she may go on shopping sprees, create art, or abuse substances. The person may express feelings of being special, invincible, or creative. On the negative side, he or she may also be irritable and violent.
As every person has different talents, the way that these high feeling are expressed will always be different. For example, the feeling that one is particularly creative might be expressed in art, or it might be used in scientific design. A person experiencing mania may forgo sleeping or eating without really noticing. In general, impaired judgment combined with feelings of invincibility often lead people experiencing a high phase to engage in risky but sometimes extraordinary behaviors.
In addition to the two main phases of bipolar disorder, there are also mixed phases. These consist of any of the behaviors above, combining the two separate phases. Some people also experience rapid cycling between phases. In most cases, extreme behavior is not constantly present, but for some either mania or depression is constant. Bipolar behavior is difficult to predict, and while the characteristics of the cycle can provide some insight, it is impossible to determine what to expect from a person experiencing the extremes of bipolar disorder.
