Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness that is characterized by extreme mood swings, abrupt changes in energy levels, and distorted decision making. Learn more about its symptoms and treatments here.

Annoyed ADHD woman using mobile phone in coffee shop

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A child with symptoms of bipolar disorder swings at the park

What Bipolar Disorder Looks Like in Children

As a child with ADHD, I often felt misunderstood. I’m sure that I looked lazy, lost, and confused to everyone else. While in my mind, I was analyzing, examining, and exploring endless possibilities. I didn’t feel lazy at all. My mind was constantly in motion. Thoughts were racing through my brain at the speed of light, and I didn’t know how to shut them off. I wish I could have explained what was going on to someone who would understand. A child with ADHD can be frustrating for parents, but remember the child is probably frustrated as well if her outside appearance is completely opposite to what she feels inside her mind.

[Self-Test] Does My Child Have Bipolar Disorder?

Becca Colao, an inattentive adult, recommends these strategies for living better with ADHD: - Set a timer to get yourself going on a boring task. - Put on high-energy music to rev yourself up before a long meeting, difficult chore, or anything else that tends to let your mind wander. - Hire a friend to check in on you periodically during a big project. If you’re off task, they can nudge you back to work. - Change up the view. When you find yourself getting distracted, move to a different location — outside, or maybe a coffee shop down the block. Moving locations can “reset” your brain when you get bored.

What Bipolar Disorder Looks Like in Adults

[Self-Test] Bipolar Disorder in Adults

Treatment for the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

A sad boy with ADHD sits on the stairs hiding his face

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Conceptual representation of bipolar disorder vs. ADHD, wooden doll and his shadow

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Ask the Doctor: Is It ADHD or Bipolar — or Both?

Piecing together the puzzle of bipolar and ADHD together.

Bipolar Disorder

Solving the ADHD-Bipolar Puzzle

Dealing with ADHD is a challenge. Bipolar disorder? Even harder. And when the two of them occur...

Bipolar Disorder

Where ADHD and Bipolar Disorder Overlap

Impulsivity. Over-activity. Moodiness. These symptoms could describe ADHD or bipolar disorder — or...

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Bipolar Disorder

Watch Out! Doctors Mistake Bipolar Disorder for ADHD

To doctors who are trained in mood disorders, ADHD symptoms can look like bipolar disorder. Don't let...

Ask the Experts

Is it ADHD or Bipolar Disorder?

ADHD and bipolar disorder often look alike at first. Know what symptoms and behaviors t...

Bipolar disorder and ADHD: Learn to tell the difference in this free download.

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Free Expert Resource: Solving the Bipolar and ADHD Puzzle

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The different masks of bipolar disorder.

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Forty percent of individuals with bipolar disorder also have ADHD. The conditions’ symptoms typically...

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