People living with bipolar disorder may experience periods of social isolation due to mood changes, stigma, or difficulties maintaining relationships.

Isolation can occur during depressive episodes when you might withdraw from others or during manic episodes when interpersonal conflicts may increase.

Research suggests that social isolation can worsen bipolar symptoms and affect overall well-being.

Finding ways to navigate isolation through therapy, support groups, or intentionally socializing with loved ones may help improve your mental health and quality of life.

Social isolation is common in people with bipolar disorder, regardless of whether they have bipolar I, bipolar II, or cyclothymic disorder.

However, the way isolation presents may vary during different episodes:

  • During depressive episodes, people may withdraw from friends and family due to fatigue, feelings of hopelessness, or loss of interest in social activities.
  • During manic episodes, impulsive behaviors, interpersonal conflicts, or overstimulation may contribute to isolation.
  • Between episodes, some people may have difficulty maintaining social connections due to lingering stigma, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion.

Some research shows that loneliness and mood disorders can go hand in hand: having a mood disorder may make you feel more isolated, but being lonely can also worsen a mood disorder.

A 2020 study found that loneliness and social withdrawal are associated with increased symptom severity and lower quality of life in people with bipolar disorder.

More recently, a 2024 study highlighted that social isolation can disrupt emotional regulation, leading to greater mood instability and worsening long-term outcomes.

These findings suggest that reducing isolation, whether through structured social activities, therapy, or peer support, could play a role in managing bipolar disorder symptoms.

Social isolation related to bipolar disorder isn’t always obvious. It can manifest in different ways, including:

  • avoiding social events or relationships due to anxiety, depression, or a fear of judgment
  • feeling disconnected from others, even when physically present in social situations
  • withdrawing from communication, such as ignoring messages or declining invitations
  • pushing people away due to irritability, mood changes, or emotional numbness
  • experiencing guilt or shame about past manic or depressive episodes, leading to self-imposed isolation

These behaviors can create a cycle where isolation worsens mental health symptoms, which in turn makes it harder to reconnect with others.

The right treatment can help you manage bipolar disorder and may include therapy or medication. This can make a positive difference in social interactions.

Beyond that, try small, intentional steps to foster connections with others:

  • Start small: Brief, low pressure social interactions, like texting a friend or attending a virtual support group, can feel less overwhelming than bigger commitments.
  • Seek therapy: A therapist can help identify patterns of isolation and develop strategies for re-engaging with social life in a more manageable way.
  • Join support groups: Peer-led groups for people with bipolar disorder can provide validation and a sense of community.
  • Create structured social routines: Setting a recurring coffee date or attending a weekly class can help make socializing feel predictable and manageable.
  • Communicate with trusted people: Letting loved ones know when you need support (or space) can help reduce misunderstandings and strengthen relationships.
  • Take care of yourself: Getting enough sleep, avoiding substance use, and other self-care habits for bipolar disorder can help you manage your mood, making it easier to connect socially with others.

If a loved one has bipolar disorder, you can learn to support them. Read our articles on Guide to Bipolar Disorder and Relationships and How to Help and Support Someone with Bipolar Disorder.

Various mental health resources can offer support for those experiencing social isolation related to bipolar disorder:

  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): free support groups and educational resources
  • International Bipolar Foundation: resources for people with bipolar disorder
  • Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA): online and in-person peer support groups for people with bipolar disorder
  • Community centers and wellness programs: activities tailored for people managing mood disorders

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Isolation is a common but challenging experience for people with bipolar disorder. While mood fluctuations and external factors can contribute to withdrawal, social connection plays an important role in managing symptoms and improving mental health.

Taking small steps to reconnect with others through therapy, peer support, or structured social activities can help break the cycle of isolation and support overall well-being.