Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder involves distinct episodes of elevated mood (mania or hypomania) and episodes of low mood (depression), separated by periods of steadier mood. It affects around 1 in 50 Australians at some point in their life.
With the right treatment, most people manage bipolar disorder well. This page covers what the episodes look like, what contributes to the condition, and how it’s treated.
What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?
Manic or hypomanic episodes
- Elevated, expansive or unusually irritable mood
- Increased energy or restlessness
- Less need for sleep without feeling tired
- Rapid speech or racing thoughts
- Inflated self-confidence or grandiosity
- Impulsive decisions around spending, risk-taking or relationships that feel out of character
Depressive episodes
- Persistent low mood or loss of interest
- Fatigue and low energy
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Changes in sleep and appetite
- Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
- In some cases, thoughts of death or suicide
Hypomania is a milder, shorter form of mania that doesn’t cause the same level of impairment, but it can still be disruptive and it’s an important marker for diagnosis. The pattern, frequency and intensity of episodes vary between people and between the diagnostic types of bipolar disorder.
What causes bipolar disorder?
Genetics
Bipolar disorder has a strong genetic component and often runs in families.
Neurological & biological factors
Differences in brain structure and neurotransmitter regulation are associated with bipolar disorder.
Life stress & major transitions
Episodes can be triggered or worsened by significant stress, disrupted sleep or major life changes, though stress alone doesn’t cause the condition.
Substance use
Can trigger episodes or complicate the picture for some people.
As with most mental health conditions, bipolar disorder develops from a combination of biological vulnerability and environmental factors, not a single cause.
How is bipolar disorder treated?
Medication
Mood stabilisers and other medications, prescribed and monitored by a GP or psychiatrist, are usually central to management. Psychologists don’t prescribe.
Psychoeducation
Understanding episode patterns, early warning signs and triggers is a large part of effective long-term management.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
Adapted for bipolar disorder, CBT can help with depressive symptoms and unhelpful thought patterns.
Routine-focused approaches
Such as interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, which stabilise sleep and daily routines given their link to episode triggers.
Family-focused therapy
Helps family members understand the condition and support long-term management.
Ongoing psychological support alongside medical management is generally associated with better long-term outcomes than medication alone.
When should I see a psychologist about bipolar disorder?
You don’t need to wait until things feel unmanageable.
Bipolar disorder is generally diagnosed by a psychiatrist, though a psychologist is often a valuable and accessible first point of contact and can work alongside a psychiatrist and GP as part of your ongoing care.
- Distinct periods of unusually elevated mood, energy or irritability, alongside separate periods of depression
- Impulsive decisions or behaviour during high-energy periods that you later regret
- A family history of bipolar disorder alongside your own mood symptoms
- Existing bipolar disorder that feels harder to manage, or a change in your usual pattern
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide during a depressive episode. Seek support immediately; see the crisis contacts above.
A GP can set you up with a Mental Health Care Plan under Medicare’s Better Access scheme, which covers a rebate for a set number of psychology sessions each year.
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Get matched with a psychologistFrequently asked questions
What’s the difference between bipolar disorder and regular mood swings?
Everyone has mood fluctuations. Bipolar disorder involves distinct, sustained episodes of mania or hypomania and depression that are clearly different from a person’s usual mood and functioning, often lasting days to weeks rather than hours.
Can a psychologist diagnose bipolar disorder?
Diagnosis is generally made by a psychiatrist, given the complexity of distinguishing bipolar disorder from other conditions. A psychologist can provide ongoing support and often plays a key role in spotting early signs and referring you appropriately.
Can people with bipolar disorder live full, stable lives?
Yes. With effective treatment, usually a combination of medication, therapy and routine management, many people manage the condition well and lead full lives, including in relationships and careers.
Do I need medication if I have bipolar disorder?
Medication, prescribed by a GP or psychiatrist, is usually a central part of management, though the right approach is individual. A psychologist can provide therapy alongside medical treatment but can’t prescribe.
Is online therapy effective for bipolar disorder?
Telehealth can work well for the psychological therapy part of bipolar disorder management, though ongoing coordination with a prescribing GP or psychiatrist stays important regardless of format.
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