Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by shifts from periods of highs (mania or hypomania) to lows (depression). Media and popular culture is full of misconceptions about people with bipolar disorder. Understanding the thought process of someone with bipolar disorder is important not only for those living with the condition but also for their loved ones, friends, and colleagues.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder has several classifications including bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder. While the symptoms between the three can vary widely, the main features of bipolar disorder are manic or hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes, which can last for days, weeks, or even months.
Mania involves a period of abnormally elevated mood, energy levels, and activity. During mania, a person may experience grandiose thoughts, a decreased need for sleep, rapid speech, racing thoughts, impulsivity, and risky behavior.
Hypomania is a less severe form of mania. The symptoms are milder and might not significantly impair daily functioning, but are still noticeable.
Depression in bipolar disorder is similar to major depressive episodes, characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and a loss of interest in activities and social interactions.
The Thought Process in Manic Episodes
During manic episodes, a person’s thoughts can race at an incredible speed. Their mind will jump from one idea to another without much logical connection. This rapid thought process is known as the “flight of ideas.” It can make a conversation with someone experiencing mania feel chaotic and difficult to follow.
A common feature of mania is grandiosity. People with mania may believe they are invincible, capable of extraordinary feats, or destined for greatness. These thoughts can drive them to take on big projects or make impulsive decisions that seem brilliant at the moment but are likely unrealistic. For example, someone in a manic state might decide to start a new business, quit their job, or engage in risky financial investments without considering the consequences.
The Thought Process in Depressive Episodes
On the other end of the spectrum, depressive episodes are a stark contrast to mania’s energy. During depression, thoughts can become slow, dark, self-critical, and pessimistic. The mind might be consumed with feelings of worthlessness, guilt, and hopelessness. Unlike the creative, expansive thoughts of mania, depressive thoughts get stuck on past failures and perceived flaws.
A person with bipolar disorder often experiences cognitive distortions during a depressive episode. These are irrational thoughts that reinforce negative thinking. For example, they might see situations in black-and-white terms, believing that if they are not perfect, they are a complete failure. Another common distortion is catastrophizing, where they may imagine the worst possible outcomes of a situation, no matter how unlikely they are.
The Role of Mixed Episodes
Some people with bipolar disorder may have mixed episodes, meaning they have symptoms of both mania and depression at the same time. This can lead to a distressing, confusing thought process where the person feels both agitated and hopeless simultaneously. The co-occurrence of high energy with depressive thoughts can increase the risk of dangerous impulsive behaviors, including self-harm or suicide.
Supporting Someone with Bipolar Disorder
Understanding the complicated emotional and mental processes is the first step to helping your loved one. You can also:
Continue educating yourself about bipolar disorder, including its signs, causes and treatments.
Allow the person to express their thoughts and feelings without interrupting or dismissing their experiences.
Be patient and compassionate as they move through their mood swings.
Encourage them to seek professional help.
Bipolar disorder requires treatment from mental health professionals. Typically, after diagnosis, a person will need to take mood stabilizers or other medications and seek psychotherapy.
To learn more about how to support those with bipolar disorder, please reach out to us.