Understanding
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterised by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood episodes can significantly impact energy levels, activity, judgement, behaviour, and the ability to think clearly.
Understanding
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterised by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood episodes can significantly impact energy levels, activity, judgement, behaviour, and the ability to think clearly.
Understanding
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterised by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood episodes can significantly impact energy levels, activity, judgement, behaviour, and the ability to think clearly.
What does Bipolar Disorder feel like?
Living with bipolar disorder can feel like riding an emotional rollercoaster with intense highs and devastating lows. During manic episodes, you might feel euphoric, full of energy, and capable of anything, but also irritable, impulsive, and prone to poor decision-making. These periods can involve little need for sleep, racing thoughts, and grandiose ideas. Depressive episodes bring crushing sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
The unpredictability of mood swings can strain relationships, affect work performance, and leave you feeling like you're losing control of your life. Between episodes, you may feel relatively stable, but the fear of the next mood swing can create ongoing anxiety and uncertainty.
Common Symptoms
Extreme mood swings between mania/hypomania and depression
Periods of elevated energy, euphoria, or irritability
TolerancDecreased need for sleep during manic episodese requiring more alcohol to achieve the same effect
Racing thoughts, rapid speech, and distractibility
Impulsive behaviour and poor judgement during highs
Severe depression with feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness
Significant changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and energy levels
What does Bipolar Disorder feel like?
Living with bipolar disorder can feel like riding an emotional rollercoaster with intense highs and devastating lows. During manic episodes, you might feel euphoric, full of energy, and capable of anything, but also irritable, impulsive, and prone to poor decision-making. These periods can involve little need for sleep, racing thoughts, and grandiose ideas. Depressive episodes bring crushing sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
The unpredictability of mood swings can strain relationships, affect work performance, and leave you feeling like you're losing control of your life. Between episodes, you may feel relatively stable, but the fear of the next mood swing can create ongoing anxiety and uncertainty.
Common Symptoms
Extreme mood swings between mania/hypomania and depression
Periods of elevated energy, euphoria, or irritability
TolerancDecreased need for sleep during manic episodese requiring more alcohol to achieve the same effect
Racing thoughts, rapid speech, and distractibility
Impulsive behaviour and poor judgement during highs
Severe depression with feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness
Significant changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and energy levels
What does Bipolar Disorder feel like?
Living with bipolar disorder can feel like riding an emotional rollercoaster with intense highs and devastating lows. During manic episodes, you might feel euphoric, full of energy, and capable of anything, but also irritable, impulsive, and prone to poor decision-making. These periods can involve little need for sleep, racing thoughts, and grandiose ideas. Depressive episodes bring crushing sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
The unpredictability of mood swings can strain relationships, affect work performance, and leave you feeling like you're losing control of your life. Between episodes, you may feel relatively stable, but the fear of the next mood swing can create ongoing anxiety and uncertainty.
Common Symptoms
Extreme mood swings between mania/hypomania and depression
Periods of elevated energy, euphoria, or irritability
TolerancDecreased need for sleep during manic episodese requiring more alcohol to achieve the same effect
Racing thoughts, rapid speech, and distractibility
Impulsive behaviour and poor judgement during highs
Severe depression with feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness
Significant changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and energy levels
History of Bipolar Disorder
Understanding bipolar disorder has evolved from ancient observations of mood extremes to modern recognition of it as a treatable neurobiological condition.
Ancient Times
Hippocrates and later Aretaeus of Cappadocia described "circular insanity," recognising the connection between mania and depression as alternating states of the same condition.
1850s
French psychiatrist Jean-Pierre Falret coined the term "folie circulaire" (circular insanity), providing the first systematic description of bipolar disorder as distinct cycles of mania and depression.
1950s
Lithium was discovered as an effective treatment for bipolar disorder by John Cade, revolutionising treatment and establishing bipolar as a biological condition rather than purely psychological.
Present
Modern understanding recognises bipolar disorder as a spectrum with different types (I, II, cyclothymic), advanced neuroimaging reveals brain differences, and comprehensive treatment combines medication, therapy, and lifestyle interventions for optimal management.
History of Bipolar Disorder
Understanding bipolar disorder has evolved from ancient observations of mood extremes to modern recognition of it as a treatable neurobiological condition.
Ancient Times
Hippocrates and later Aretaeus of Cappadocia described "circular insanity," recognising the connection between mania and depression as alternating states of the same condition.
1850s
French psychiatrist Jean-Pierre Falret coined the term "folie circulaire" (circular insanity), providing the first systematic description of bipolar disorder as distinct cycles of mania and depression.
1950s
Lithium was discovered as an effective treatment for bipolar disorder by John Cade, revolutionising treatment and establishing bipolar as a biological condition rather than purely psychological.
Present
Modern understanding recognises bipolar disorder as a spectrum with different types (I, II, cyclothymic), advanced neuroimaging reveals brain differences, and comprehensive treatment combines medication, therapy, and lifestyle interventions for optimal management.
History of Bipolar Disorder
Understanding bipolar disorder has evolved from ancient observations of mood extremes to modern recognition of it as a treatable neurobiological condition.
Ancient Times
Hippocrates and later Aretaeus of Cappadocia described "circular insanity," recognising the connection between mania and depression as alternating states of the same condition.
1850s
French psychiatrist Jean-Pierre Falret coined the term "folie circulaire" (circular insanity), providing the first systematic description of bipolar disorder as distinct cycles of mania and depression.
1950s
Lithium was discovered as an effective treatment for bipolar disorder by John Cade, revolutionising treatment and establishing bipolar as a biological condition rather than purely psychological.
Present
Modern understanding recognises bipolar disorder as a spectrum with different types (I, II, cyclothymic), advanced neuroimaging reveals brain differences, and comprehensive treatment combines medication, therapy, and lifestyle interventions for optimal management.
Take our free self-test
Take our free self-test
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
How therapy can help
Therapy plays a crucial role in bipolar disorder management alongside medication. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, and family-focused therapy help identify mood triggers, develop coping strategies, and maintain stability.
Therapy teaches mood monitoring skills, helps recognise early warning signs of episodes, and provides tools for managing stress and maintaining regular routines. Psychoeducation helps both patients and families understand the condition, whilst therapy addresses any trauma, relationship issues, or co-occurring mental health conditions that may complicate bipolar disorder.
Benefits of Therapy
Learn to recognise early warning signs of mood episodes
Develop effective coping strategies for managing mood swings
Establish healthy routines and sleep patterns
Improve medication adherence and treatment collaboration
Build stronger communication and relationship skills
Address trauma, anxiety, or other co-occurring conditions
Create crisis prevention and safety planning strategies
Develop long-term stability and recovery-focused goals
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about bipolar disorder and comprehensive treatment approaches
Is bipolar disorder the same as having mood swings that everyone experiences?
No, bipolar disorder involves extreme mood episodes that last days to months and significantly impair functioning. Normal mood changes are brief, proportionate to circumstances, and don't interfere with daily life the way bipolar episodes do.
Can someone with bipolar disorder live a normal life?
Yes, with proper treatment including medication, therapy, and lifestyle management, many people with bipolar disorder lead fulfilling, productive lives. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment are key to achieving long-term stability.
Is medication always necessary for bipolar disorder?
For most people with bipolar disorder, medication is essential for mood stabilisation and preventing dangerous episodes. Whilst therapy and lifestyle changes are crucial, they typically aren't sufficient alone for managing the neurobiological aspects of the condition.
Can stress trigger bipolar episodes?
Yes, significant stress, major life changes, sleep disruption, substance use, and stopping medication can all trigger mood episodes. Learning stress management, maintaining routines, and having strong support systems are important for preventing episodes.
How therapy can help
Therapy plays a crucial role in bipolar disorder management alongside medication. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, and family-focused therapy help identify mood triggers, develop coping strategies, and maintain stability.
Therapy teaches mood monitoring skills, helps recognise early warning signs of episodes, and provides tools for managing stress and maintaining regular routines. Psychoeducation helps both patients and families understand the condition, whilst therapy addresses any trauma, relationship issues, or co-occurring mental health conditions that may complicate bipolar disorder.
Benefits of Therapy
Learn to recognise early warning signs of mood episodes
Develop effective coping strategies for managing mood swings
Establish healthy routines and sleep patterns
Improve medication adherence and treatment collaboration
Build stronger communication and relationship skills
Address trauma, anxiety, or other co-occurring conditions
Create crisis prevention and safety planning strategies
Develop long-term stability and recovery-focused goals
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about bipolar disorder and comprehensive treatment approaches
Is bipolar disorder the same as having mood swings that everyone experiences?
No, bipolar disorder involves extreme mood episodes that last days to months and significantly impair functioning. Normal mood changes are brief, proportionate to circumstances, and don't interfere with daily life the way bipolar episodes do.
Can someone with bipolar disorder live a normal life?
Yes, with proper treatment including medication, therapy, and lifestyle management, many people with bipolar disorder lead fulfilling, productive lives. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment are key to achieving long-term stability.
Is medication always necessary for bipolar disorder?
For most people with bipolar disorder, medication is essential for mood stabilisation and preventing dangerous episodes. Whilst therapy and lifestyle changes are crucial, they typically aren't sufficient alone for managing the neurobiological aspects of the condition.
Can stress trigger bipolar episodes?
Yes, significant stress, major life changes, sleep disruption, substance use, and stopping medication can all trigger mood episodes. Learning stress management, maintaining routines, and having strong support systems are important for preventing episodes.
How therapy can help
Therapy plays a crucial role in bipolar disorder management alongside medication. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, and family-focused therapy help identify mood triggers, develop coping strategies, and maintain stability.
Therapy teaches mood monitoring skills, helps recognise early warning signs of episodes, and provides tools for managing stress and maintaining regular routines. Psychoeducation helps both patients and families understand the condition, whilst therapy addresses any trauma, relationship issues, or co-occurring mental health conditions that may complicate bipolar disorder.
Benefits of Therapy
Learn to recognise early warning signs of mood episodes
Develop effective coping strategies for managing mood swings
Establish healthy routines and sleep patterns
Improve medication adherence and treatment collaboration
Build stronger communication and relationship skills
Address trauma, anxiety, or other co-occurring conditions
Create crisis prevention and safety planning strategies
Develop long-term stability and recovery-focused goals
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about bipolar disorder and comprehensive treatment approaches
Is bipolar disorder the same as having mood swings that everyone experiences?
No, bipolar disorder involves extreme mood episodes that last days to months and significantly impair functioning. Normal mood changes are brief, proportionate to circumstances, and don't interfere with daily life the way bipolar episodes do.
Can someone with bipolar disorder live a normal life?
Yes, with proper treatment including medication, therapy, and lifestyle management, many people with bipolar disorder lead fulfilling, productive lives. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment are key to achieving long-term stability.
Is medication always necessary for bipolar disorder?
For most people with bipolar disorder, medication is essential for mood stabilisation and preventing dangerous episodes. Whilst therapy and lifestyle changes are crucial, they typically aren't sufficient alone for managing the neurobiological aspects of the condition.
Can stress trigger bipolar episodes?
Yes, significant stress, major life changes, sleep disruption, substance use, and stopping medication can all trigger mood episodes. Learning stress management, maintaining routines, and having strong support systems are important for preventing episodes.
Meet our Therapists
Meet our Therapists
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
More
Adults (18+)
Introducing Andrea Szentgyorgyi, a UKCP-registered integrative psychotherapist with over 1,000 clinical hours. Andrea combines person-centred, solution-focused therapy with advanced techniques including hypnotherapy and EMDR, creating a tailored and flexible approach for each client. With 6 years of experience, she provides a safe and supportive space to explore challenges and promote lasting emotional wellbeing.
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Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we’re proud to introduce Isabella May Leonard (MSc), an experienced person-centred psychotherapist offering therapy for adults. With over 2,500 clinical hours, Isabella brings warmth, compassion, and professional depth to her practice, with experience across private practice, NHS Talking Therapies, and third-sector services. She provides both short- and long-term therapy, creating a safe and reflective space where clients can explore challenges at their own pace.
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Adults (18+)
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
More
Adults (18+)