Bipolar 1, or bipolar disorder type I, is one form of the mood disorder. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) states that to be diagnosed with bipolar 1, the patient has either a manic episode or mixed episode for seven days; the alternative criterion is that the patient has severe mania that requires hospitalization. Besides the mania, a patient with bipolar 1 has depressive episodes that last for at least two weeks. To qualify as a disorder, however, the symptoms must be a change in the patient's normal behavior and interfere in her life.
Mania Symptoms
The Mayo Clinic defines mania as abnormal euphoria, where the patient has an elevated mood that is higher than normal. During a manic episode, the patient has increased self-esteem, a decreased need for sleep, and racing thoughts and speech. The patient may also have problems concentrating. Poor judgment is another sign, which can result in the patient participating in risky behaviors. Some manic patients may also experience aggression or agitation. Other mania symptoms include extreme optimism, easily distracted, and increased physical activity and sexual drive.
Mixed State Symptoms
During the mixed state, the NIMH notes that the patient experiences mania and depression at the same time. For example, the patient can be sad while energetic. Mixed state symptoms include agitation, suicidal thinking, sleeping problems and appetite changes.
Depression Symptoms
While a patient with bipolar 1 does exhibit symptoms of depression, the mania symptoms occur more often. The Mayo Clinic notes that the hallmark symptoms of depression are sadness, hopelessness and suicidal thoughts. The patient may also feel guilty or irritable. The patient may have sleeping problems---either sleeping too much or having difficulty falling asleep. Other symptoms of depression in bipolar 1 patients are concentration problems, anxiety, fatigue and loss of interest.
