What Is High-Functioning Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition characterized by shifts in mood between mania and depression. While the disorder often impacts an individual’s ability to function in a significant way, many people are able to limit these effects, continuing to maintain successful careers, foster healthy relationships, and appear happy, even if they are struggling internally. People who experience bipolar disorder in this way are often said to be living with high-functioning bipolar disorder. Below, we’re covering high-functioning bipolar disorder—its symptoms, causes, and treatment.
What is high-functioning bipolar disorder?
Bipolar Disorder is a mood disorder characterized by manic highs and depressive lows in succession. The expression of manic and depressive symptoms can vary depending on the person who experiences them. High-functioning bipolar disorder is a term used to describe someone who may experience less severe emotional symptoms or fewer disruptions to their ability to function.
Someone may be considered high functioning for a variety of reasons. In some cases, the designation refers to the severity of an individual’s manic and depressive episodes. They may experience less extreme lows and highs or episodes that are shorter in duration. It can also refer to someone’s ability to maintain a career, nurture relationships, and address daily challenges.
The term high-functioning bipolar disorder is not an official diagnosis, and its use may be misleading because it can suggest that an individual is experiencing a less severe form of the disorder, which isn’t always the case. An increased ability to function may come at the expense of greater challenges in other symptoms, such as risky behavior. An individual may be able to function at a high level due to intense external pressures or stress that they’ve put on themselves, which can complicate other areas of their lives. Minimizing the effects an individual with bipolar disorder experiences can worsen emotional symptoms of the disorder and, in some cases, cause them to interpret that they don’t need treatment.
Conceptualizing bipolar disorder in this way can, however, provide insights into the methods of treatment that may work well. Many people who are thought to function at a high level with bipolar disorder have found ways of managing the condition that allow them to achieve their goals.
Types of bipolar disorder
The existence of a high-functioning form of bipolar disorder helps illustrate the varied ways this mental health condition can manifest. There are four recognized forms of bipolar disorder: bipolar 1 disorder, bipolar 2 disorder, cyclothymic disorder, and unspecified bipolar disorder. Each form of the condition can produce different symptoms and require different treatment methods.
- Bipolar 1 disorder – is considered the most severe form of the condition and is marked by periods of mania that last at least a week or manic symptoms that are severe enough to warrant immediate medical care. People during these periods of mania may be unable to sleep, experience a racing pulse, and exhibit risky behavior. This condition is also characterized by depressive episodes that last approximately two weeks. During periods of depression, the individual may experience low mood, fatigue, and a lack of motivation.
- Bipolar 2 disorder – is characterized by manic episodes that are usually less severe than those of bipolar 1. This sometimes means that the mania is not visible to others (or even the person with the disorder), as mania may be reflected in an incrementally heightened state. Depressive episodes in bipolar 2 may be more severe though. Bipolar 2 is often misdiagnosed as depression, which can lead to further complications, as treating only the depressive aspect of bipolar disorder may lead to feelings of confusion and isolation.
- Cyclothymic disorder – is the least severe of the types of bipolar disorders, with mood swings that typically do not disrupt day-to-day living. A cyclothymic disorder does not necessarily progress into more intense forms of bipolar disorder, though it can in some cases.
- Unspecified bipolar disorder – is marked by manic and depressive episodes, but with symptoms that may lack the severity or duration typical in other forms of bipolar disorder. While people who have bipolar disorder usually experience episodes that last one week or longer, people with this form of the condition might experience highs and lows that cycle back and forth in days rather than weeks.
How does high-functioning bipolar disorder differ from other types?
The term high-functioning bipolar disorder is not identified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It is instead a categorization that some people use to identify any form of bipolar disorder that is managed by the person with the condition somewhat effectively. Someone with bipolar 1 or bipolar 2 could be considered high functioning, as can people with unspecified bipolar disorder and cyclothymic disorder. Each of these forms of bipolar disorder is marked by a series of manic and depressive episodes. What makes someone high functioning is their ability to cope with and adapt to the onset of an episode.
While the term high-functioning carries with it a connotation of being better or healthier, this is not necessarily the case. Many people with high-functioning bipolar disorder have learned how to cope by hiding their condition or putting pressure on themselves. People with high-functioning bipolar might actually experience more challenging symptoms of stress and anxiety because they believe they must constantly be “on” or working to hide the severity of the effects of the disorder.
Treating high-functioning bipolar disorder
Because individuals with high-functioning bipolar disorder can often manage the condition effectively, they may be overlooked for treatment. In some cases, functioning at a high level is not a goal of treatment but is instead another facet of the disorder that may need to be addressed and modified.
A healthcare professional can determine how to develop a treatment plan for bipolar disorder based on an individual’s level of functioning. The most common form of treatment for bipolar disorder is a combination of therapy and medication. Therapeutic modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy can help an individual process their emotions regarding bipolar disorder and learn how to function in a healthy and productive manner.
Medication may include antidepressants, sleep aids, antipsychotic medication, and sedative aids. Because the symptoms of bipolar disorder swing from one high to another, treatment often requires adjustments throughout a person’s life. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medication.
Social support can also be a vital part of managing symptoms of high-functioning bipolar disorder. Because someone experiencing the disorder in this way may not exhibit symptoms, their family and friends could be unaware of its existence. However, loved ones can be a significant source of support, guidance, and care.
How online therapy can help
Research suggests that online therapy can help individuals navigate the symptoms of bipolar disorder. For example, researchers in one study concluded that online therapy can be effective in the treatment of bipolar disorder in a collaborative-care program. Four hundred participants with bipolar disorder received treatment via videoconferencing. Rates of participation were similar to those at a facility that treats people with bipolar disorder. Improvements in several clinical indices were found in participants who completed the program.
BetterHelp has licensed online therapists who have expertise in bipolar disorder and can help you manage the symptoms. With BetterHelp, you can participate in therapy remotely, which can be helpful if a depressive episode makes leaving home difficult. You’ll also have the option of reaching out to your therapist outside of sessions; so, if you have a question about bipolar disorder, you can send your therapist a message, and they’ll respond when they’re able. A licensed mental health provider can help you learn how your specific bipolar disorder symptoms manifest and work with you to manage them. Read below for reviews of BetterHelp therapists from people who have sought help for similar challenges.
Therapist reviews
“Dr. Von Tersch is wonderful! I’ve been working with her for about a year now and I’ve seen drastic improvements in my mood and mental health!”
“Sarah has been amazing. I came to her at one of my lowest moments when I had no hope things would start looking up. With Sarah’s help, I have started feeling close to myself again. Nothing is an overnight fix, but I am so glad I met her.”
Takeaway
What is a high-functioning bipolar disorder?
While “high-functioning bipolar disorder” is not an official diagnosis, many clinicians and laypeople use the term “high-functioning” to refer to someone whose symptoms do not significantly interfere with their day-to-day life. The same is true of any condition; high-functioning people can typically control their mood, develop social connections, maintain employment, and problem-solve issues related to their condition as they occur.
It might be equally accurate to refer to someone with high-functioning bipolar disorder as someone with “well-managed” bipolar disorder. Some people also describe their bipolar disorder as being “in remission” when their treatment regime lets them go a long time between episodes. No matter what title a person uses, the goal of treating bipolar symptoms is to increase a person’s overall well-being, including how well they function in everyday life.
Is it possible to be high-functioning bipolar?
The term “high-functioning bipolar” often refers to people who are in treatment and can adequately manage the symptoms of their chronic condition. It is not an official condition or diagnosis but rather describes when a person’s symptoms do not significantly interfere with their daily life. They often have high psychosocial functioning and can engage in regular activities.
Becoming high-functioning generally requires adhering to medication routines, actively engaging in psychotherapy, and applying appropriate self-management techniques. Evidence suggests that those managing their disorder well typically use the following coping skills:
- Getting adequate sleep, food, and exercise
- Self-monitoring of moods
- Reflective and meditative practices
- Educating themselves about bipolar disorder
- Developing strong social connections
- Enacting a plan to manage bipolar disorder episodes
What does a bipolar high feel like?
A “bipolar high” likely refers to the sense of euphoria, elation, and excitement that typically accompanies manic episodes. The feelings associated with manic episodes can be intense. A person often feels very happy, perhaps disproportionately to their circumstances. They also likely have a ton of energy and are willing to apply it to new or unusual activities. However, while a bipolar high may seem positive, it can come with serious risks. People experiencing manic episodes are more likely to make risky, impulsive decisions, and they may struggle to think through problems adequately.
Is bipolar disorder more serious than depression?
Bipolar disorder and depression are both serious conditions. They can make it hard for a person to function and may jeopardize employment, social relationships, or educational pursuits. The most severe risk of bipolar disorder and depression is suicide. Both conditions are associated with elevated rates of suicide compared to the general population.
Some evidence suggests that those with bipolar disorder are more likely to attempt suicide than those with depression. However, the same evidence indicates that people with depression are more likely to complete their suicide attempts than those with bipolar disorder. The risks are high for both conditions, making determining which is more serious difficult.
Can overthinking cause bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is not caused by overthinking. Bipolar disorder is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, not by conscious thought processes. There is some evidence to suggest that bipolar disorder can be induced or exacerbated by external stressors and substance use, but no evidence suggests that the condition can be brought on by overthinking or rumination alone. However, overthinking might be associated with another mental illness, such as generalized anxiety disorder.
How long does a bipolar high last?
The term “bipolar high” likely refers to the condition's manic state. Manic episodes consist of euphoria and excessive energy, creating a feeling of a “high” in some cases. However, manic episodes also come with risks of impulsive behavior and increased aggression. Manic episodes typically last at least seven days and may continue for weeks. In some rare cases, a person may oscillate between mania and depression much more quickly, which is often referred to as “rapid cycling.”
What is mild vs severe bipolar?
Mild vs. severe bipolar may refer to the two different types of bipolar disorder, bipolar I and II. Bipolar I is what most people think of when considering bipolar disorder; a person experiences mood swings between a very low state, called depressive episodes, and a very high state, called manic episodes. Thus, bipolar I is the modern interpretation of the now-antiquated “manic-depressive disorder.” Diagnosing bipolar disorder requires differentiating between the two types.
Bipolar II has not been as extensively studied as bipolar I, but evidence continues to reveal that it is likely as prevalent. It is characterized by the presence of hypomanic episodes rather than the manic episodes seen in bipolar I. A hypomanic episode is a milder version of a manic episode. They typically last for a shorter period and don’t have as severe symptoms. Because of this, bipolar I was commonly considered to be the more severe of the two conditions. However, recent evidence suggests that people with Bipolar I experienced depressive episodes that were less severe and that both conditions likely have a similar impact on a person’s overall well-being.
What triggers bipolar disorder?
Bipolar mood shifts might seem unpredictable, but a key aspect of psychotherapy for bipolar disorder is teaching patients to recognize signs of an impending mood change. Patients also learn to avoid specific triggers that heighten the risk of manic or depressive episodes. Though triggers vary from person to person, certain common ones have been identified through research.
Studies indicate that improperly adjusted antidepressant medication is a significant trigger of manic episodes, emphasizing the importance of having these medications managed by healthcare professionals trained in mood disorders. Other known triggers for manic episodes include caffeine, seasonal changes, hormonal fluctuations, and viral infections. As for depressive episodes, triggers often include fasting, lack of sleep, and stressful life events.
How does a bipolar mind think?
Bipolar disorder is a type of mood disorder characterized by challenges in controlling emotional states. When someone experiences a bipolar episode, their mood shifts to one of two extremes on the emotion continuum: manic or depressive. Individuals with bipolar disorder who are undergoing treatment and effectively managing their condition can increase the amount of time between episodes, but everyone with the condition experiences episodes occasionally.
Manic episodes are characterized by intense feelings of joy or excitement, heightened mood and energy levels, distractibility, irritability, and impulsiveness. In contrast, depressive episodes are marked by sadness, low energy, fatigue, and a diminished interest in enjoyable activities. Both states can disrupt thinking processes. During mania, thoughts may become disorganized, impacting rational decision-making. In a depressive state, memory issues and difficulty concentrating or making decisions are common, often accompanied by a lack of motivation to thoroughly think things through.
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