New Delhi: What often begins as bursts of energy and productivity can, for some individuals, signal a deeper mental health condition. For one individual, the turning point came with the realisation that periods of intense activity followed by emotional lows were not simply the result of stress or overwork, but symptoms of a larger pattern.

There were phases marked by little sleep, rapid speech and an overflow of ideas — moments that felt like heightened clarity and efficiency. These were often followed by periods of extreme fatigue, low motivation and an inability to engage with daily life. For years, these shifts were misunderstood and internalised as personal shortcomings, until a clinical diagnosis of bipolar disorder provided clarity and context.

According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 36 million people worldwide were living with bipolar disorder in 2021. Experts believe the actual number may be significantly higher due to stigma, lack of awareness and limited access to mental healthcare services.

Bipolar disorder is frequently mistaken for ordinary mood swings. However, mental health professionals emphasise that it is a complex condition characterised by intense and prolonged emotional states. Episodes of mania or hypomania may include elevated mood, increased energy, reduced need for sleep, racing thoughts and, in some cases, impulsive or high-risk behaviour.

In contrast, depressive episodes can bring persistent sadness, loss of interest in daily activities, fatigue and feelings of hopelessness. In severe cases, individuals may also experience suicidal thoughts, making early recognition and intervention critical.

Mental health experts point to a range of contributing factors. According to psychologist Suranjana Ghatak Choudhury, bipolar disorder often results from a combination of biological, psychological, environmental and social influences. Similarly, Vishnupriya J highlights the role of neurochemical imbalances, genetic predisposition, trauma, substance use and chronic stress in triggering the condition.

Treatment typically involves a combination of approaches. Dr Dinika Anand notes that while medication plays a crucial role, long-term management also depends on psychotherapy and lifestyle adjustments. Maintaining a consistent daily routine, ensuring adequate sleep, engaging in regular physical activity and following a balanced diet are considered essential for stability. Experts also caution against alcohol and recreational drug use, as these can worsen symptoms.

Despite growing awareness, misconceptions about bipolar disorder remain widespread. The condition is often associated with stereotypes of unpredictability or aggression, while popular culture tends to portray it in extreme or misleading ways. Such narratives can overshadow the lived reality of individuals managing the condition on a daily basis.

“Mental illness is only one facet of a person’s life, not its entirety,” says Choudhury, emphasising the importance of viewing individuals beyond their diagnosis.

With greater awareness, timely intervention and supportive environments, experts stress that people living with bipolar disorder can lead stable, fulfilling and accomplished lives.