A person in a hypomanic phase may also feel more powerful and omnipotent. The manic phase is the most extreme part of bipolar disorder. A person becomes euphoric, ideas come much too fast, and concentration is nearly impossible. Anger, irritability, fear, and a sense of being out of control are overwhelming. A person's judgment is impaired, and he or she may behave recklessly without a sense of consequence.
Some people lose touch with reality and experience delusions and hallucinations.
When this happens, people often need to be hospitalized for their own safety. If a person with bipolar disorder experiences a severe manic episode, he or she may be abusive to children, spouses, or engage in other violent behaviors. There may also be problems with attendance and performance at school or work, as well as significant difficulties in personal relationships. The cycles of bipolar disorder may be different for each person. Oftentimes a person may first experience depression.