Many celebrities have come about their struggles with bipolar disorder. Selena Gomez, Stephen Fry, and Demi Lovato are just a few. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), bipolar disorder affects approximately 45 million people globally.

It is a complex and challenging condition. Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that is characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. It’s also known as manic-depressive illness, but that term is less used now due to the negative connotations of “

People with bipolar disorder experience episodes of both depression and mania or hypomania, which are periods of elevated or irritable mood and increased energy. These episodes can last for weeks or months, and the frequency and duration of these episodes can vary.

There are several types of bipolar disorder, including Bipolar 1 Disorder, Bipolar II Disorder, and Cyclothymic disorder. The types relate to the severity and frequency of manic and depressive episodes.

Mania is one of the defining features of bipolar disorder.

Here are the common symptoms of mania: 

Elevated/euphoric or irritable mood 

Decreased need for sleep

Increased activity level

Racing thoughts or speech

Impulsivity or risk-taking behavior

Grandiosity & poor judgement.

One example of a celebrity with a public episode of mania is Kanye West. In 2018, the rapper and producer had a highly publicized manic episode that lasted for several weeks.

During this time, he made a number of controversial statements and engaged in erratic behavior, including tweeting frequently and giving rambling interviews to the media.

West's behavior during this time was characteristic of mania, with symptoms such as racing thoughts, impulsivity, and inflated self-esteem.

One example of a famous depressive episode of bipolar disorder is the experience of actress Catherine Zeta-Jones. In 2011, Zeta-Jones checked into a mental health facility to seek treatment for Bipolar II Disorder, which she had been diagnosed with earlier that year.

Common symptoms of depressive episodes are - 

Sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyable.

Fatigue, trouble sleeping, changes in appetite/weight.

Feelings of worthlessness, trouble concentrating, and suicidal thoughts or behavior.