Depressive states form the most frequent way of life for the bipolar, with some psychologists suggesting that they count for three quarters of the emotional life. During these times the bipolar will experience extreme sadness and pessimism, often losing all interest in the outside world. They will become withdrawn and listless, in line with all the wellness categories of regular clinical depression. The constant physical and emotional sense of despair comes through in eating and sleeping patterns – insomnia and ‘early morning waking’ are typical occurrences.
When manic periods start they can seem like the dawn of a new day for the depressive. Suddenly, he feels inspired, euphoric or even invincible. Such a sensation can lead to a complete loss of judgment about what kind of behaviour is appropriate. The results can be devastating when this sense of impunity carries them through a particular fantasy – they simply do not have the barriers that other people do and can actualise their condition in extreme ways. Another crisis point comes when the next phase of depression starts. Coming down from such a high and feeling the emptiness of all the ideas that previously inspired them can be seriously deflating and it is at such times that suicide attempts are made.
Sufferers of bipolar disorder can often seem very charismatic and convincing. This is especially the case when they do not vocalise any of their stranger ideas, but simply seem to be highly inspired. Indeed, bipolar disorder is a condition long associated with genius and this association has valid grounds. However when speaking to a manic depressive at their time of mania, it is important not to let them convince you that they have control. There are other forces at work in them, and the dawning of a new depressive phase can be more than anyone could withstand. Medical supervision is vital in helping sufferers of bipolar disorder learn to manage their own condition.