The “Big Five” refers to a well-known model of personality—Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism—not a bipolar-specific checklist. People with bipolar disorder don’t share one personality type. However, research shows some trends in Big Five traits among those with the condition—especially during stable periods.
Common Patterns in the Big Five
People with bipolar disorder often score higher in Neuroticism, which reflects emotional sensitivity, anxiety, and mood reactivity. This makes sense, as the condition involves intense mood shifts.
They may also show higher Openness to Experience, linked to creativity, imagination, and curiosity. Many with bipolar report artistic interests or unconventional thinking—especially during hypomanic phases.
During wellness, Extraversion can be elevated, particularly in bipolar I. This may appear as sociability, energy, or assertiveness. But this trait often dips during depressive episodes.
Conscientiousness (organization, reliability) and Agreeableness (cooperation, empathy) vary widely. Some maintain strong functioning in these areas; others struggle during mood episodes—but these aren’t defining features of bipolar itself.
Importantly, personality is not the same as symptoms. A manic episode might look like extreme extraversion, but it’s a temporary state—not a core trait. Likewise, depression can mimic low conscientiousness, even in highly disciplined people.
Also, the Big Five describe general personality—not mental illness. Two people with bipolar can have opposite Big Five profiles. One may be introverted and detail-oriented; another, bold and spontaneous.
So while there are statistical tendencies—like higher Neuroticism and Openness—there’s no “bipolar personality” in the Big Five model. The illness affects mood regulation, not character.
If you’re exploring this question to understand yourself or someone else, focus less on labels and more on individual patterns. With treatment, people with bipolar can thrive across all personality types.