I’ve been doing a lot of thinking lately about bipolar disorder and the signs and symptoms that come with it. It’s interesting how many people might have a different perception of what bipolar actually looks like, you know?
For me, the first thing I noticed was this wild rollercoaster of emotions. One minute, I’d feel on top of the world—like I could conquer anything. I’d be super energized, tackling projects I’d been putting off forever. But then, out of nowhere, I’d crash into this deep pit of sadness. It’s like my brain was playing tricks on me, swinging between extremes that felt so real and so intense.
There were times when I’d be really irritable too. Just a small annoyance could send me spiraling. I remember a day when I snapped at a friend over something trivial, and afterward, I felt awful. It’s that weird feeling of being out of control, where you know you’re overreacting but can’t seem to hit the brakes.
And then there are the times when I’d just feel… empty. Like the world was gray, and I was just going through the motions. Those moments are rough because you’re stuck in your own head, and no amount of external cheerfulness can pull you out.
What’s been eye-opening for me is reflecting on how these symptoms have affected my relationships. Sometimes, I worry that I come off as unreliable. Friends and family might not understand why I can be super social one week and then ghost everyone the next. It’s a tough situation!
I think it’s important for those of us who experience this to have open conversations about it. So many people face similar feelings, and sharing our experiences can make a big difference. Have any of you noticed similar patterns in your own lives? Or maybe you’ve learned ways to manage when you feel those ups and downs creeping in? I’d love to hear your thoughts!