Notice whether you have distinct episodes of unusually high or irritable mood
Notice whether you have periods of unusually low mood or loss of interest
Notice whether mood changes last for days or weeks, not just minutes or hours
Notice whether you need much less sleep but still feel energized
Notice whether you feel unusually confident, powerful, or important
Notice whether you talk more than usual or feel pressured to keep talking
Notice whether your thoughts race or feel hard to slow down
Notice whether you become more impulsive, reckless, or easily distracted
Notice whether you spend more money, take more risks, or make sudden big decisions
Notice whether others say your behavior seems very different from usual
Notice whether you have periods of depression with fatigue, hopelessness, or guilt
Notice whether your symptoms interfere with work, school, relationships, or daily life
Notice whether alcohol or drug use could be affecting your mood
Notice whether sleep problems, stress, or medical conditions could be contributing
Track your mood, sleep, energy, and behavior over time
Ask a mental health professional for an evaluation
Seek urgent help if you have suicidal thoughts, psychosis, or unsafe behavior