Accurately identifying bipolar symptoms in men can be difficult, since this condition has symptoms similar to a whole range of similar conditions.
It ranges from mania (extreme high moods) all the way to clinical depression (intense lows). In general, the bipolar disorder is defined by the presence of both the manic and depressive phases in a single person, in altering phases. For a clinical diagnosis, patients should show phases that last for at least two weeks at a time.
How does the bipolar disorder affect men’s lives?
The bipolar symptoms in men are usually seen at an earlier age than with women (bipolar symptoms in women), perhaps even during childhood. The extreme nature of these symptoms can damage any attempt at a normal life, both personally and professionals. This is especially true in men who can exhibit aggressive and irrational behavior during the manic phases. Bipolar syndrome also affects men’s sex lives.
Patients with symptoms of bipolar disorder tend to have risky sexual histories due to the manic symptoms. At other times, intense depression has the opposite effect, with erectile dysfunction (ED) being a common problem. Unfortunately, the effects of bipolar syndrome only get worse with time. This makes it important to recognize symptoms of bipolar in men as early as possible to begin lifelong treatment.
What are the bipolar symptoms in men?
The clinical and behavioral symptoms of bipolar syndrome are based on the two phases; the manic and the depressive. It is important to note that not all men will show the same symptoms, since bipolar affects each person differently.
Manic phase:
Men tend to have an exaggerated sense of self-worth and overconfidence in their skills or decision-making. This leads to dangerous behavior such as substance abuse and poor professional decision-making.
A sense of power and high energy levels is matched with decreased sleep and restlessness. In the manic phase, men can have unrealistic viewpoints, often bordering on delusional. If left undiagnosed and untreated, the manic symptoms could lead to full psychosis, or break from reality.
Read more about bipolar manic symptoms.
Depressive phase:
In this cycle, men feel helpless and doubt their own competence in even the simplest tasks. There is a sudden drop in both energy levels and confidence, with some men having no interest in their daily routine. Patients often skip work or school due to mental and physical fatigue, while sleep is disturbed and fitful. Men usually lose appetite and make unhealthy eating choices. These and other symptoms of depression could lead to suicidal thoughts or behavior.
Learn about the different options for treatment for depression.
Bipolar symptoms in men continued…
Cyclothymia:
It is the mildest type of bipolar symptom, with manic and depressive phases of low intensity. In fact, most men suffering from cyclothymia may not even realize they have a problem. They can continue to live almost normal lives, though at the risk that the symptoms grow worse.
Bipolar 2 Disorder:
This is associated with a milder manic phase (called hypomania), though the depressive phase can be intense. More women than men suffer from this type of bipolar syndrome, which can be controlled with the right treatment. Bipolar II disorder completely disrupts the day-to-day activities of the patient, leading to problems in social and professional lives.
Learn about the bipolar 2 symptoms.
Bipolar 1 Disorder:
This the most dangerous type of the bipolar syndrome, especially for men. Both the phases are generally more intense and can last longer. The risk of self-inflicted harm is higher in men, along with external aggression.
Learn about the bipolar 1 symptoms.
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Bipolar Disorder Cause
Signs of Bipolar in Men
Bipolar Symptoms in Adults
Bipolar Symptoms in Teenagers
Bipolar Symptoms in Children