About Bipolar Students

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In order to understand bipolar disorder, mania and hypomania must also be clear terms. "Hypo" means "under", therefore hypomania suggests a disorder that doesn't reach the level of mania. A person with hypomania sleeps less than others or not at all, may experience periods of increased energy, feel very creative and may successfully get involved in organized projects. It may actually be a positive mood, if impulsivity and bursts of energy are under control or used constructively. Though euphoria may be experienced, it can easily be replaced by irritability.

Bipolar students may be affected by Bipolar Disorder I, Bipolar Disorder II or Cyclothymic Disorder. Bipolar Disorder I is marked by the occurrence of at least one manic episode, in which case depression may also occur or not. Bipolar Disorder Type II is identifiable when at least one episode of hypomania and at least one of major depression occur. The mania symptoms, euphoria or irritability, don't have a great impact on social life. Bipolar students who have Cyclothymic Disorder (also known as Bipolar III) have a condition less severe than the two described above, but a more chronic one though. This condition will last at least two years during which single episodes that occur will last for more than two months.

Bipolar students may have problems with getting up in the morning for classes and with focusing, especially in the morning. Memory may also be affected. However, episodes of hypomania may lead to great creativity and productivity.