While it is not known specifically why this illness occurs, there are definite signs that the condition is present. Extreme mood changes are present in anyone suffering from Bi-polar. While we all have good days and bad days, do not mistake the characterizations to which we are referring to. These moods include manic euphoria that can suddenly shift to debilitating depression. These changes must be constant as well, with the changes happening in matters of hours, days, or even months. These abrupt changes in personality are typically the cause in the disruption of their daily life and personal relationships. We can further detail the two extremes in mood by discussing the common characteristics of both.
On the depressive side, the most frequently seen symptoms include suicidal ideations, weight loss or weight gain, abuse of drugs or alcohol, decreased sex drive, and long periods of sleep. Other symptoms apply that are more subtle and usually only noticeable by the person that is suffering from the disorder. On the manic side the sufferer may exhibit extreme euphoria with no apparent cause, long periods of insomnia, complete ignorance to the fact that their unusual behavior is causing any problems, or aggressive and reckless behavior.