In this video, board member Julie A. Fast talks about the differences between mania and psychosis. She explains the symptoms of each and tells stories from her own life. Julie also talks about the difference between bipolar disorder and schizoaffective disorder. A note from Julie: I had my first psychotic symptoms when I was 16. My mania started at 17 and I had my first depression at 18. Bipolar is a complicated illness that often has a mix of symptoms during just one mood swing! It helps to know the difference between mania and psychosis as they are often confused. Mania is about energy and psychosis is about hallucinations and delusions. It’s not alway easy to know what is going on in our brains. We are experiencing it all with so many emotions and thoughts and behaviors it can be hard to stop and say- am I manic? Or am I also psychotic! But it helps to know the difference so that we can share our symptoms and get the help we need. I was psychotic from age 16 until I was finally diagnosed with bipolar disorder at age 31. I thought everyone saw things that were not there or felt they were being followed! I didn’t know that paranoia or seeing my self being attacked by dogs wasn’t normal. Now I know the difference. I’m just as diligent about managing my psychosis as I am my mania and depression. I’m interested to know if you or someone you care about has psychosis and didn’t know what to call it! Watch the video and let me know. I will answer any questions you have in the comments section. Julie International Bipolar Foundation is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. We do not recommend any specific treatment, drug, food or supplement. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read from IBPF. *The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the speaker, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of International Bipolar Foundation*