While anger isn’t an “officially recognized” symptom of bipolar disorder, irritability—which is common with dramatic mood shifts—can lead to angry outbursts and explosions with devastating effects.

I believe having bipolar disorder has brought me closer to my parents — and vice versa. We’ve been on such a roller coaster since my diagnosis decades ago. But through the years, I’ve found stability.

Bouncing back after a mood episode isn’t always easy — and what helps can be deeply personal. With bipolar disorder, no two experiences are exactly alike, and neither are the ways people find their ...