6 Surprising Bipolar Disorder Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Bipolar disorder isn’t what it seems. It’s a very complex condition that can include many symptoms beyond what you would think. Most people know that bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings. But what they don’t know is that there is much more to the disorder than that. 

The warning signs of bipolar disorder can be surprising. This can make it easy to confuse the disorder with other conditions, like schizoaffective disorder.  Recognizing these signs is the key to getting the right support before things spiral too far out of control. Let’s take a closer look at some of the more surprising bipolar disorder warning signs that you should know.

1. Excessive Spending: Financial Decisions You’ll Later Regret

Another common but surprising warning sign of bipolar disorder is excessive spending. This typically occurs during manic episodes. Increased risk-taking is a common feature of mania. When someone is manic, they may be impulsive and have impaired decision-making. Research indicates that this can lead to serious consequences, including out-of-control spending. 

Also, during a manic episode, a person may have a false sense of financial security due to grandiosity. They may believe that they have unlimited resources.  This can later lead to serious financial problems. The person may experience shame and regret, and strained relationships with loved ones because of the excessive spending. 

2. Grandiosity: A Feeling of Invincibility

Grandiosity is another important warning sign. Grandiosity refers to a state of inflated self-esteem. It’s important to note that this is out of character for them. People experiencing grandiosity may feel powerful — like they are on top of the world. They may even feel invincible. These beliefs may cause them to engage in risky behavior, as they believe that there will be no consequences. Unfortunately, grandiosity can lead to things like financial ruin, lost jobs, and even jail. 

3. Intense Anger: Sudden Outbursts

Picture this: Something small happens at work, and you find yourself getting really mad. So, you quit your job on the spot. Irritability is a sign of mania. If you are in a full-blown manic episode, this emotion can become amplified very easily. 

Research indicates that anger is an often underrecognized yet significant symptom of bipolar disorder, especially during manic episodes. This symptom can cause strained relationships and other consequences, including jail.  

4. Hypersexuality: Sexual Impulses on Overdrive

Hypersexuality is another common sign of bipolar disorder that surprises people. During manic episodes, sexual desire can surge. A person might have an increase in sexual desire and also be more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors. They may make inappropriate advances on their boss and others that they normally wouldn’t. They may be overly promiscuous. This may have a negative effect on their personal safety and have lasting impacts on their relationships. The person may also experience guilt, shame, and embarrassment when the manic episode is over. 

Learn more about Bipolar Disorder Hypersexuality. 

5. Erotomania: Unrequited Love

Erotomania, also called De Clérambault’s syndrome, is a less discussed and more rare warning sign of bipolar disorder. However, there is a frequent association between erotomania and mood disorders, particularly those involving psychosis.  Erotomania is a form of delusion. People with erotomania will believe that another person is in love with them. Typically, the other person will be of higher status, such as a celebrity. However, in reality, there is no basis for this belief. 

The Netflix limited series "Baby Reindeer" showcases erotomania pretty well. The show focuses on the themes of stalking and obsession.  Although it doesn’t say what Martha, in the hit Netflix show Baby Reindeer suffers from, psychiatric experts believe that her behaviors are consistent with erotomania. 

The person who has erotomania may stalk the other person extensively. They may send gifts to them and become upset when the person doesn’t reciprocate. Erotomania can lead to legal issues, especially if the delusions result in harassment.

6. Psychosis: When Reality Becomes Distorted 

Psychosis is one of the most severe signs of bipolar disorder. It can occur during depressive episodes, but it is significantly more frequent during manic episodes.  Psychosis involves a disconnect from reality. A person experiencing psychosis might believe things that aren’t true (delusions) or have paranoid thoughts that others are out to harm them. They may also hear voices or see things that aren’t there (hallucinations). 

Psychosis can lead to significant distress for both the person experiencing it and their loved ones. Psychosis in bipolar disorder is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. It’s critical to get professional help as soon as possible to manage the symptoms and prevent harm.

Related: When to go to the emergency room for bipolar. 

Don’t Ignore the Red Flags

Bipolar disorder isn’t just about mood swings—it’s complex and includes things you wouldn’t necessarily think of. If you are experiencing any of these or notice them in a loved one, act before things get out of control. Don’t wait until chaos hits.