These dreams are soon followed by an upward mood change. Sometimes the person may experience or long-lating bouts of depression followed by long lasting bouts of mania. Between bipolar episodes, the individual often experiences the normal range of moods. In most cases of bipolar disorder I, the depressive phases far outnumber manic phases, and the cycles of mania and depression are not regular or predictable. Individuals with Bipolar II do not experience full-blown manic phases.
Bipolar disorder can be severe and long-term, or it can be mild with infrequent episodes.
Manic episodes are distinguished by feelings of euphoric happiness, rapid speach, disconnected thoughts, grandiose ideas, hallucinations, irritability, and high levels of energy. A manic episode usually comes on suddenly, and it often, but not always, follows a period of severe depression. A manic episode can last anywhere from a week to several months. There are many symptoms associated with Bipolar Disorder. These symptoms may occur spontaneously without a trigger and may develop gradually.