Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by periodic and intense emotional states, typically highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression.) These mood states, called "episodes," can affect sleep, energy, activity, judgement, behavior, and sexual habits.

Bipolar I disorder is defined by episodes of mania, which are more severe than hypomania. Manic episodes typically last longer and can cause significant problems in daily life, sometimes requiring hospitalization or involving symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions.

There are also less severe bipolar-related disorders, including cyclothymic disorder and other specified bipolar and related disorders. In cyclothymic disorder, people experience ongoing highs and lows, but the symptoms are milder than those seen in bipolar I or II disorder.

One key difference is the pattern of symptoms over time. Cyclothymic disorder requires symptoms to be present for at least half the time over a period of years, with no gaps longer than two months without symptoms. In bipolar I and II disorder, longer symptom-free periods are possible. These periods are known as euthymia, when a person is not experiencing mania or depression.

People with bipolar disorder do not necessarily move directly from mania to depression. They may have periods of stability between episodes, and in some cases can experience mixed episodes, where symptoms of mania and depression occur at the same time.

The threshold at which someone can experience an episode is considerably lower when under the influence of THC, drugs, or alcohol. Substance use may also bring out stronger or "worse" reactions.

People may not know they are bipolar until they experience their first episode. Someone's first bipolar episode may be experienced if one has a history of underlying trauma, a history of negative self image/self-talk, anxiety or depression. The severity of the episodes may increase over time without management.

Medication is available to control the symptoms and severity of bipolar disorder.

Bipolar & Kink

Bipolar comes in many forms. In cases where mania or hypomania can occur, this can lead to rash decisions and unclear thinking. It may be a good idea to check if your play partner is in a state of mind to consent before pursuing any kink activities that could be harmful. Things that can be on the body permanently, like artistic cutting or scarification, should be taken off the table. Someone in mania may not know it. If they are lucky, they may have someone to notice and help. If that is you, use your judgment wisely.

Bipolar & Sex

Mania can lead to an increased sex drive with increased pleasure with sexual activity. It can also lead to heightened sexuality in ways that go against the person's normal values and morals. Those with bipolar disorder need to be careful while in this state in order to avoid doing things that they may regret or that can impact their self respect. People in the manic state may also be more open to sexual exploration, possibly exploring different or new kinks. This can be helpful in terms of learning more about their like and dislikes, but it is important to be in touch with personal boundaries and be able to express them.

While in a depressive sate, people may shy away from sexual experiences and exploration. This can be due to lack of interest in sexuality, anxiety, or feelings of low self worth or low self esteem.

One the other hand, the depressive episode doesn't always look so different from the manic one. In this case, people may seek feelings of self worth through external validation and other sexual partners. This is more likely the case if a person has a hard time setting boundaries for themselves due to low self esteem or feelings of low self worth.

This is why it is so important to look at oneself and be able to be honest with oneself. Are you able to set healthy boundaries for others and yourself? Are you letting others do things sexually that you do not like or would not normally participate in? These are important questions for people with bipolar disorder to ask themselves in connection to their sexuality and sexual activity.

Bipolar & Identity

You are not alone. It is scary to have experienced a bipolar episode and, while mindfulness and understanding of the occurrence is important, it does not necessarily change one’s identity.

Resources

Get somewhere where you feel safe and/or call a friend or crisis line if the situation does not resolve and you need to talk to Crisis.

America Lifeline - Crisis Support - 988