Bipolar Disorder: What Every Young Adult Should Know

College, jobs, relationships, independence—young adulthood is a time of huge change. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or emotional sometimes. But if your moods feel like a rollercoaster—so high you feel unstoppable, then so low you can barely move—it might be more than just stress. You could be dealing with bipolar disorder, and you’re not alone.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes intense shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These changes go beyond typical ups and downs—they can impact how you think, feel, and function day-to-day.

There are two main types young adults might hear about:

• Bipolar I: Involves manic episodes (extreme highs) and usually depressive episodes too.

• Bipolar II: Includes hypomania (a less intense high) and major depression (deep lows).

There’s also cyclothymia, which has mood swings that aren’t as extreme but still affect your life over time.

Common Signs to Watch For

If you’re wondering whether what you’re experiencing might be bipolar disorder, here are some common signs:

During a high (mania or hypomania):

• Feeling invincible or overly confident

• Talking super fast or racing thoughts

• Needing little or no sleep

• Making impulsive decisions (overspending, risky sex, quitting school suddenly)

• Being easily distracted or overly energetic

During a low (depression):

• Feeling hopeless or empty

• No motivation or interest in things you used to enjoy

• Sleeping way too much or not at all

• Trouble focusing or making decisions

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Everyone feels highs and lows sometimes—but if they’re extreme, last for days or weeks, or affect your school, work, or relationships, it’s time to talk to someone.

Why Does It Happen?

There’s no one reason. Bipolar disorder is linked to:

• Genetics – it can run in families

• Brain chemistry – how your brain processes mood and energy

• Stress or trauma – life changes, childhood trauma, or major stressors

It’s not your fault, and it doesn’t mean you’re broken.

How Is It Treated?

Good news: bipolar disorder is treatable. With the right support, you can feel stable and in control. Treatment usually includes:

• Medication: Mood stabilizers or other meds help balance your brain chemistry.

• Therapy: Talking with a therapist helps you manage emotions, set goals, and build coping skills.

• Lifestyle changes: Regular sleep, avoiding alcohol or drugs, stress management, and self-care all play a big role.

The key? Consistency. Skipping meds or ignoring symptoms can lead to setbacks—but staying in treatment helps you stay balanced.

Talking About It

Opening up about mental health isn’t easy—but it’s powerful. If you think you might be dealing with bipolar disorder:

• Talk to someone you trust—a friend, counselor, or family member.

• See a professional—only a mental health provider can diagnose and guide treatment.

• Know you’re not alone—many young adults live with bipolar disorder and thrive.

Real Talk: Life With Bipolar

Bipolar disorder doesn’t define you. Plenty of young adults with bipolar go to college, build careers, have relationships, and lead meaningful lives. It might take time to find the right treatment and support, but you can live well with bipolar disorder.

Final Message: You Deserve Support

If your mood swings are interfering with your life, it’s okay to ask for help. The earlier you get support, the easier it is to manage bipolar disorder—and the stronger your future becomes.

Helpful Resources:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

• Jed Foundation

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 anytime