In 2023, an estimated 8 million Americans were living with bipolar disorder – nearly half of them men. While the condition affects men and women at similar rates, the way it manifests can be different. Men often experience unique symptoms and face greater stigma when seeking mental health care. Breaking that stigma starts with open conversations about their experiences.
At Oceans Healthcare, we recognize that men have distinct mental health needs. That’s why we’re talking about bipolar symptoms in men today. Understanding is the first step toward better care.
What Are the Causes of Bipolar Disorder in Men?
The exact causes of bipolar disorder in both men and women are not well understood. Multiple factors likely play a part in the condition’s development. Current research suggests that three major components contribute to the development of bipolar disorder:
- Family history: Men who grew up with family members who experienced bipolar symptoms are much more likely than the general population to develop bipolar disorder. There may be a genetic component to bipolar disorder. Further research is needed to find a definitive “bipolar gene.”
- Brain structure: Some research suggests that bipolar disorder is associated with a lower volume of gray matter in parts of the brain, including the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Both parts of the brain influence mood, emotions, and impulse control.
- Environmental factors: Periods of high stress are associated with the onset of bipolar disorder in both men and women. Trauma, loss, and other distressing events can lead to bipolar disorder. Sleep deprivation is another common environmental precursor to bipolar disorder. It’s not entirely clear why these factors appear to cause bipolar disorder in some people and not others, but it could have to do with certain genetic markers.
Men also have a higher rate of certain co-occurring conditions, including substance use disorders and compulsive gambling.
Regardless of the causes of a man’s bipolar disorder, the condition is treatable. If you’re concerned that a man in your life is living with bipolar disorder, it’s important to remember that he can live a happy, healthy life with the right support.
What Are the Types of Bipolar Disorder That Affect Men?
Men can develop any type of bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is marked by severe mood swings. The men living with this disorder will cycle between “high” manic moods and “low” depressive moods. There are three primary types of bipolar disorder, each with a unique set of symptoms, which we’ll break down now.
Bipolar I Disorder
Bipolar I is characterized by manic episodes that last at least 7 days. To qualify as a manic episode, symptoms must cause significant difficulty at work, school, or in other activities of daily living. Mania usually includes rapid thoughts, a lack of need for sleep, and an inflated sense of self.
Most men with bipolar I disorder also experience a depressive episode lasting for at least two weeks, but they aren’t required for the condition to be diagnosed. Depressive episodes are the opposite of mania. They include low energy, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness.
Bipolar II Disorder
Bipolar II features longer-lasting depressive episodes, which can go on for months or even years. During these depressive episodes, men experience symptoms including intense irritability, lack of motivation, and even thoughts of self-harm. Depression associated with bipolar appears to be more common in women than it is in men.
With bipolar II, men do not experience a true manic episode. Instead, they have hypomania, which isn’t as intense. When hypomania occurs following a depressive episode, it can be seen as a welcomed change in mood. Still, it can lead to impulsive behavior and poor judgment.
To be diagnosed with bipolar II, men must experience at least one hypomanic episode and one depressive episode over a year.
Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia)
Cyclothymic disorder features depressive symptoms and hypomanic symptoms that don’t amount to full episodes. Despite more moderate symptoms, cyclothymia is more chronic. With other bipolar disorders, men will usually experience extended periods of stability between episodes. Men with cyclothymia will have shorter periods of stability that don’t last longer than 8 weeks.
The chronic nature of the condition makes managing day-to-day life very difficult. Rapid cycling, where men go from depressed to hypomanic very quickly, is more common with cyclothymia. Mixed episodes, where men experience both hypomania and depressive symptoms at the same time, are also more common with this condition.
What Do Bipolar Disorder Symptoms in Men Look Like?
Many symptoms of bipolar disorder are the same for both men and women. As noted above, the specific symptoms a man will experience can vary drastically depending on the type of episode he is experiencing. The condition is called “bipolar” disorder because it causes people to experience two polar opposite moods.
When a man is manic, he will experience an extremely high mood and have a lot more energy than usual. It is common for men and women who experience mania to go on spending sprees, have an increased desire for sexual activity, and generally seek out pleasurable activities.
Depressive episodes, on the other hand, will zap a man of his energy. He could have trouble getting out of bed and performing activities of daily living. Instead of seeking out pleasurable activities, he may not be able to get pleasure from things he usually enjoys.
Even though men experience many of the same symptoms as women, they face more stigma when it comes to their mental health. This can make identifying and treating symptoms in men more complicated. Men deserve care and support just as much as anyone else, and they must receive the treatment they need.
Let’s take a look at some more symptoms that men with bipolar disorder often experience.
Early Onset Bipolar Disorder
Men experience bipolar symptoms five years earlier than their female counterparts, on average. Although men often experience symptoms sooner, they don’t necessarily get treatment any earlier. Delaying treatment for bipolar disorder can cause symptoms to get more severe over time. If you are concerned that you or a young man in your life is showing signs of bipolar disorder, they need help. They need to see a professional who is familiar with diagnosing bipolar disorder in men, specifically. Earlier treatment is associated with better outcomes and an easier time managing symptoms.
Depression and Aggression Symptoms of Bipolar
Aggression is a common symptom of bipolar disorder in men. While aggressive behavior can be associated with both depression and mania, it’s most common during a manic episode. Men can become especially aggressive when mania develops into psychosis. During a psychotic episode, people of all genders often develop delusions and even hallucinations. This disconnection from reality can result in aggressive behavior. A man with a psychotic episode may believe that his loved ones are out to get him, even when that’s not the case. If you’re with someone who is being aggressive, it’s important to prioritize your safety.
Appetite Changes Due to Bipolar Disorder
Both mania and depression can cause changes in appetite. Often, men who are manic have so much energy that they don’t feel the need to eat. For others, eating food can be part of the pleasurable activities men experiencing mania seek out. Similar changes can occur during a depressive episode for different reasons. Sometimes, a man will feel too depressed to eat. In other cases, men can use food as a tool for coping with negative emotions. Over time, these changes in appetite lead to changes in weight. This can cause physical health problems as well as changes in self-esteem.
Treatment for Bipolar Disorder in Men in the South
Men with bipolar disorder deserve to have access to mental healthcare without shame. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to be debilitating. With the right combination of therapy and medication, bipolar disorder treatment can empower men with the condition to manage their symptoms and lead a more productive and fulfilling life.
At Oceans Healthcare, we’ll empower you to take charge of your bipolar disorder. We foster a collaborative environment, meaning you’ll have a team of clinicians brainstorming to find the best way to meet your needs. Across our 30+ locations, we treat more than 34 thousand clients annually. We have the experience to provide you with world-class treatment. Call us now at 888-293-6899.
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