Bipolar and anger

Do you go through times when you’re more irritable than usual and have intense surges of anger? If so, this page can help you understand if anger could be a sign of hypomania – and the steps you can take.

Is anger a common symptom of hypomania?

Yes. Irritability and anger – usually fuelled by an excess of energy – are common symptoms of high mood in bipolar.  

During a period of hypomania, you may find that you: 

• are irritable, impatient and short-tempered with family, friends or colleagues 
• get frustrated by situations that usually wouldn’t bother you 
• have emotional outbursts and/or explode with rage out of nowhere 
• feel angry or critical with yourself 

When is bipolar anger more likely to happen? 

For people living with bipolar, a period of irritability can be triggered by lots of different factors, including:

• stress – caused by things like exams, bereavement, trauma or divorce 
• change – caused by things like a new relationship or job, or a house move 
• jetlag – if you fly across time zones 
• substances – an excess of alcohol or caffeine, or illegal drug use 
• medication – if you don’t take it regularly, or a prescription change

What does bipolar anger feel like? 

The signs and symptoms of bipolar are varied and unique to each individual. Here, two people living with bipolar shares their experiences of hypomania:  

What causes bipolar anger during hypomania?

Researchers don’t know exactly what causes bipolar anger. 

However, evidence suggests that irritability and rage during hypomania may be caused by a ‘disconnect’ between the brain’s impulse control centre (the prefrontal cortex) and emotional centre (the amygdala).

Is bipolar anger always a symptom of high mood in bipolar?

Becoming irritable or angry is not always a sign of high mood.  

Anger – the emotion characterised by hostility and tension – is a natural human emotion that every person feels, usually as a response to frustration, injustice, or real or imagined harm.

How do I know if anger is a symptom of hypomania?

Anger is more likely to be a symptom of hypomania if:  

• getting easily irritable and frustrated is ‘out of character’ for you 
• your self-esteem and confidence are higher than usual  
• you have at least two other symptoms of hypomania at the same time
• your increased irritability lasts for at least four days
• you’ve had periods of irritability before 

What happens if I ignore a period of irritability?

You may find that impulsively speaking your mind can feel empowering at first. Anger, when balanced with wisdom and compassion, can be a powerful motivator for change and help you achieve your goals.

However, if you’re irritable with your colleagues, family and friends, you may say things you don’t mean, lose your temper, throw things, or have road rage. This can cause the breakdown of vital relationships.  

And if you’re irritable and angry with yourself, you may be at risk of self-harm, suicidal thinking and taking your own life. 

If your irritability and anger are symptoms of bipolar, ignoring a period of hypomania can:

• disrupt your work, college or university life 
• impact your relationships with family, friends and colleagues  
• increase your risk of impulsive decision-making, such as reckless driving or unsafe sexual behaviour 
• damage your long-term financial security due to overspending and risky investments 
• lead to a manic episode, which usually needs treatment in hospital

What to do next 

1. Understand bipolar anger better by reading these lived experiences
2. Use these five proven stress-busters to help you relax
3. Track your mood with our free range of resources
4. Get support from our friendly Peer Support team
5. Book an appointment with your GP or psychiatrist as soon as you can