A bipolar psychotic break, or psychosis during a manic, depressive, or mixed episode of bipolar disorder, involves a temporary loss of touch with reality. It affects about 50-75% of people with bipolar I disorder at some point, per the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Symptoms vary by episode type but share core features: delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking.

In Manic Psychosis (most common): Extreme euphoria or irritability escalates to grandiosity. The person may believe they have superpowers, are a celebrity, or on a divine mission (delusions of grandeur). Hallucinations include hearing voices praising them or commanding actions. Speech becomes rapid and tangential jumping ideas illogically. Behavior turns reckless: spending sprees, risky sex, or dangerous stunts, convinced of invincibility. Sleep drops to near-zero without fatigue.

In Depressive Psychosis: Profound sadness pairs with guilt-laden delusions, like believing they've committed unforgivable sins or caused global disasters (delusions of guilt). Hallucinations might involve accusatory voices or visions of decay. Paranoia emerges: "Others are plotting against me." Movements slow; catatonia (frozen stance) can occur.

Mixed Episodes: Combine manic energy with depressive themes agitated delusions, e.g., "I'm eternally damned but must save the world now."

Warning Signs: Sudden mood swing intensification, social withdrawal, incoherent talk, or neglect of hygiene. It lasts days to weeks if untreated.

Causes/Triggers: Genetic vulnerability + stressors (sleep loss, substances, trauma). Brain imaging shows dopamine surges in mania.

What to Do: This is a medical emergency call 911 or a crisis line (e.g., 988 in US). Hospitalization often needed for safety; antipsychotics/mood stabilizers resolve symptoms in 1-4 weeks. Early intervention prevents harm.

Seek professional diagnosis; not all breaks are bipolar. Support via NAMI or therapy aids recovery