Low Mood and Bipolar Disorder
Low Mood has been reported as a symptom associated with Bipolar Disorder in medical literature. Learn what this association means, other symptoms of Bipolar Disorder, and the tests providers may use to investigate it. Educational content only - not a diagnosis.
What does low mood have to do with Bipolar Disorder?
In the medical literature, low mood is one of the symptoms reported in association with Bipolar Disorder. This means people with Bipolar Disorder may experience low mood, but it does not mean low mood always indicates Bipolar Disorder - it can have many other causes.
A mood disorder characterized by alternating periods of mania/hypomania and depression.
Tests used to investigate Bipolar Disorder
Healthcare providers may order these tests when evaluating Bipolar Disorder.
CBC with Differential
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help evaluate overall health and detect disorder...
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Measures 14 substances in the blood to assess kidney and liver function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar ...
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
Screens for thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism....
Other symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
These symptoms are also reported in association with Bipolar Disorder.
Decreased Need for Sleep
Feeling rested on much less sleep than usual, which can be a feature of mania....
Elevated Mood
Abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, which can be a feature of mania in bipolar disorder....
Inflated Self-Esteem
An exaggerated sense of one's importance, abilities, or power, which can be a feature of mania....
Poor Judgment
Impaired decision-making, which can be a sign of cognitive decline....
Pressured Speech
Fast, continuous speech that is difficult to interrupt, which can be a feature of mania....
Frequently Asked Questions
Can low mood be a sign of Bipolar Disorder?
Low Mood is among the symptoms reported in association with Bipolar Disorder in medical literature. Symptoms vary widely between individuals, and low mood can occur for many reasons unrelated to Bipolar Disorder. This information is educational, not a diagnosis.
What else can cause low mood?
Low Mood can be associated with many conditions beyond Bipolar Disorder. Explore the low mood page to see a broader list of reported associations. Always discuss your symptoms with a qualified healthcare provider.
Which tests may be used if Bipolar Disorder is suspected?
A healthcare provider may order tests such as CBC with Differential, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP), Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) when evaluating Bipolar Disorder. Test selection is a clinical decision made by a qualified professional.