How to Identify and Discuss Your Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Could you please tell me if I have bipolar disorder?

I have been experiencing anxiety since the year before last.
My mood changes very quickly, and sometimes I even pull out my own hair.
I can easily feel extremely low due to minor issues, and I often sleep for more than 13 hours, but then I can't fall asleep again in the early morning.
Sometimes I feel very happy just a few minutes before, but then I become extremely angry over a single word or action, to the point where I have thoughts of wanting to harm someone.
Afterwards, I feel horrified that I could get so angry over something so trivial.
At night, when I try to sleep, I keep hearing faint sounds, but when my attention is diverted by other things, I no longer hear them.
When I try to lie down and sleep, the sounds seem to return, becoming clearer and clearer.
What troubles me the most is pulling out my own hair; I once pulled out a large patch of hair due to anxiety, and I was not even aware of it at the time.
I couldn't stop myself.
One of my friends has bipolar disorder, and after hearing my description, he suggested that I should see a doctor.
I have talked to my family about it, and they agree.
However, I worry that if I go to see a doctor, I might not be able to articulate my symptoms.
Could you please advise me on how to communicate my symptoms to the doctor when I finally decide to seek help, and what might be wrong with me? Thank you.

Xiao Bing, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/03/02

Dr. Chen Guangpeng reply Psychiatry

Dear Little Cookie Online Friend,
I read your letter and am very concerned to hear that you are suffering from emotional disturbances.
Based on your description, and due to certain details and other symptoms that cannot be fully clarified, I can currently suggest two possible diagnoses for the symptoms you presented: regarding the emotional aspect, it could be "Cyclothymic Disorder" or even "Bipolar Disorder," which would depend on the number, severity, and duration of the related symptoms.
As for the hair-pulling behavior, it is more aligned with what is known as "Trichotillomania," which is classified as an "Impulse Control Disorder." Regardless of the definitive diagnosis, it is evident from your description that this has caused considerable distress, and it is essential to seek appropriate treatment to prevent further harm.
A professional psychiatric team should be your best choice, and you should muster the courage to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
I wish for your issues to be resolved soon.

Reply Date: 2004/03/02

More Info

Identifying and discussing symptoms of bipolar disorder can be a challenging yet crucial step towards receiving appropriate care and support. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a range of emotional fluctuations, anxiety, and behaviors that may align with bipolar disorder or other mood disorders. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to identify your symptoms and effectively communicate them to a healthcare professional.

Understanding Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is characterized by significant mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). The symptoms can vary widely among individuals, but common indicators include:
1. Manic or Hypomanic Episodes:
- Increased energy or activity levels.

- Heightened mood or irritability.

- Decreased need for sleep.

- Racing thoughts or rapid speech.

- Impulsive or risky behaviors.

2. Depressive Episodes:
- Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.

- Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or excessive sleeping).

- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

- Thoughts of death or suicide.

Your Symptoms
From your description, you exhibit several concerning symptoms:
- Rapid Mood Changes: You mention feeling very happy one moment and then extremely angry or low shortly after. This rapid cycling can be indicative of bipolar disorder.

- Sleep Disturbances: Sleeping for over 13 hours and then experiencing insomnia at night can disrupt your daily functioning and may be linked to mood disorders.

- Impulsive Behavior: The urge to pull your hair out, especially when anxious, suggests a possible impulse control issue, which can co-occur with mood disorders.

- Intense Anger: Having thoughts of harming others due to minor provocations is alarming and should be addressed urgently.

- Auditory Hallucinations: Hearing voices can be a sign of severe anxiety or other mental health conditions, and it’s essential to discuss this with a professional.

Preparing for Your Appointment
When you decide to see a healthcare provider, preparation can help you communicate your symptoms effectively. Here are some steps to consider:
1. Document Your Symptoms: Keep a journal for a week or two before your appointment. Note your mood changes, sleep patterns, any impulsive behaviors, and how these affect your daily life. Include specific examples, such as situations that triggered intense emotions.

2. Be Honest and Open: When you meet with your doctor, be as candid as possible about your experiences. Use your journal to guide the conversation. You might say, “I’ve been experiencing rapid mood swings, feeling very happy one moment and then extremely angry or sad the next. For instance, I felt elated yesterday but became furious over a minor comment.”
3. Discuss All Symptoms: Don’t hesitate to mention all your symptoms, including the hair-pulling and any thoughts of self-harm or harm to others. It’s crucial for your healthcare provider to understand the full scope of your experiences.

4. Ask Questions: Inquire about what your symptoms might indicate and what the next steps are. Questions like, “Could this be bipolar disorder?” or “What treatments are available?” can help you gain clarity.

5. Seek Support: If you feel overwhelmed, consider bringing a trusted friend or family member to your appointment. They can help provide additional context and support.

Conclusion
Recognizing and discussing your symptoms is a vital step towards understanding your mental health and finding the right treatment. Bipolar disorder and other mood disorders can significantly impact your life, but with the right support and intervention, you can manage your symptoms effectively. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and there are professionals ready to assist you on your journey to better mental health.

Similar Q&A

How to Determine if You Have Bipolar Disorder: Key Signs and Insights

Hello, doctor. I have searched a lot of information online, and while some parts seem to match, others do not, making it difficult for me to determine whether I have bipolar disorder. I would like to share my situation for your insight. Five years ago, I fell into a prolonged sta...

Dr. Xue Gengming reply Psychiatry
It is recommended that you: 1. Discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. 2. Alternatively, visit another psychosomatic clinic to see if any relevant examinations are necessary. Thank you, and wish you good health!

Do I Have Bipolar Disorder? Understanding Symptoms and Self-Assessment

Hello, Dr. Chiu. These are the symptoms of bipolar disorder that I found online: 1. Mood swings or irritability. 2. Decreased need for sleep. 3. Uncontrollable talking. 4. Flight of ideas. 5. Distractibility. 6. Inflated self-esteem. 7. Increased goal-directed activities (such as...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello. The diagnosis of bipolar disorder in psychiatry requires a comprehensive assessment, including symptoms, duration, and severity of impact, among other factors. Based on your description, I personally believe that your situation appears to be within the normal range and doe...

Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Signs, Symptoms, and Seeking Help

Recently, I have been experiencing extreme emotional fluctuations. Normally, I feel very happy and believe that nothing can defeat me. I have thoughts and behaviors that make me feel like a genius, and I often express to my family and friends how smart I am. However, I also exper...

Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: As mentioned in the letter, there are indeed significant emotional fluctuations; however, an online diagnosis is not possible. It is recommended to consult a specialist. I hope this is helpful to you.

Understanding the Confusion: Anxiety vs. Bipolar Disorder Symptoms

About a year ago, I sought medical attention and was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Recently, I have been experiencing mood swings and decided to visit a new clinic, where I was informed that my condition is completely different and is actually anxiety disorder. However, I do n...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello. Please do not become overly attached to the diagnostic labels, as this may add to your mental and emotional distress. It is advisable to consider both physicians' diagnoses with the understanding that they are symptoms. Initially, it seems that you may be experiencing...