Common features of bipolar disorder include:

• Long periods of deep depression
• The episodes of depression alternate with periods of elation, irritable behavior and thought disturbances, called mania.
• The episodes of depression tend to last longer than episodes of mania.

Common symptoms of depression include:

• Difficulty sleeping
• Disappointment with one's self
• Hopelessness
• Irritable mood
• Decreased enjoyment from usual activities

Additional symptoms of depression include:

• Anxiety
• Apathy
• Anorexia
• Unintentional weight loss
• Fatigue
• Guilt
• Lack of concentration
• Lack of interest in normal activities
• Early waking
• Insomnia
• Suicidal thoughts

Symptoms of severe depression include:

• Increasing thoughts about death
• Increasing thoughts about suicide
• Homicidal plans
• Self-inflicted injuries
• Suicidal plans

Common symptoms of mania include:

• Decreased need for sleep
• Grandiosity
• High risk behavior
• Hyperactivity
• Impulsive behavior
• Inappropriate elation
• Increased sex drive
• Inflated self-esteem
• Poor judgment
• Racing thoughts
• Rapid speech

Symptoms of severe mania include:

• Delusions:
• Unrealistic ideas
• Unrealistic plans
• Paranoid behavior
• Hallucinations
• Drug abuse