Bipolar I disorder involves at least one episode of mania, which is a very high mood. This can alternate with moments of depression. During a manic phase, you may feel “wired” or nervous and full of energy. During a depressive phase, you may feel that you have no energy and that you can't perform daily tasks.
Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings. These can range from extreme climbs (mania) to extreme lows (depression). This can happen when a trigger causes clear signs of mania or depression, but often there is no clear trigger. The psychotic symptoms of bipolar disorder may reflect your mood.
For example, if you have a manic episode, you may believe that you have special powers or that you are being monitored by the government. If you have a depressive episode, you may feel very guilty about something you think you have done. You may feel that you are worse than others or that you don't exist.
