What does it feel like to have rapid cycling bipolar?

The main symptom of rapid cycling is the unusually frequent transition from mania or hypomania to depression and back again. With bipolar 1, manic episodes last at least seven days fewer if they are severe enough to require hospitalization. Bipolar 1 may also include depressive episodes in some cases.

How do I deal with bipolar rapid cycling?

Many experts therefore advise against the use of antidepressants (especially long term) in bipolar patients with rapid cycling. Mood-stabilizing drugs — such as carbamazepine (Tegretol), lamotrigine (Lamictal ), lithium (Lithobid), and valproate (Depakote)– are the core treatments of rapid cycling.

Can bipolar people cycle daily?

Characteristics of Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder In some cases, the episodes may cycle every few months; in others, the cycling may occur monthly or weekly. Rapid cycling is not a diagnosis, but a description or specifier of the course of the illness.

What is everyday life like with bipolar disorder?

People with bipolar experience both episodes of severe depression, and episodes of mania – overwhelming joy, excitement or happiness, huge energy, a reduced need for sleep, and reduced inhibitions. The experience of bipolar is uniquely personal. No two people have exactly the same experience.

How fast are bipolar mood swings?

Some people with bipolar disorder develop “rapid cycling” where they experience four or more episodes of mania or depression within a 12-month period. Mood swings can occur very quickly, like a rollercoaster randomly moving from high to low and back again over a period of days or even hours.

What does a bipolar mixed episode feel like?

Symptoms of a mixed episode A mixed episode of bipolar disorder features symptoms of both mania or hypomania and depression. Common signs of a mixed episode include depression combined with agitation, irritability, anxiety, insomnia, distractibility, and racing thoughts.