What Bipolar Eyes May Reveal During Mood Episodes

The phrase "bipolar eyes" has made its way into online conversations and anecdotal accounts, often used to describe noticeable changes in a person’s eyes or gaze during manic or depressive episodes. These shifts such as dilated pupils, intense staring, or a sudden "brightness" in the eyes aren’t clinically recognized markers of bipolar disorder, but they have captured public and scientific curiosity alike.

So what does science actually say about this phenomenon?

What Are Bipolar Eyes?

Though not a medical term, "bipolar eyes" refers to subtle changes in eye appearance and behavior linked to the mood swings that define bipolar disorder (BD). These changes are more often reported during manic or hypomanic episodes, though some can also appear in depressive states.

Commonly reported eye-related signs during mania or hypomania include:

• Dilated pupils

• Eyes that appear unusually bright, liquid, or sparkling

• Apparent changes in eye color or intensity

• A narrowed or squinting gaze

• Avoidance of direct eye contact

While these observations are mostly anecdotal, some researchers believe they may be tied to the physiological and neurological shifts that occur during mood episodes.

Scientific Theories Behind the Gaze

Although there is no conclusive evidence that the eyes alone can indicate a bipolar episode, certain physiological explanations may help explain what people are seeing:

• Pupil dilation is linked to heightened levels of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that surges during manic states. Increased norepinephrine widens pupils as part of the body’s fight-or-flight response.

• Bright or altered eye appearance may result from this dilation, as a wider pupil reduces visible iris color and reflects more light, making the eyes appear clearer or even glossier.

• Avoidance of eye contact may be related to a heightened sense of self-consciousness. Some people with BD experience a "self-referential gaze bias", feeling as though others are watching or judging them, prompting them to look away.

• Narrow or “mean” eyes may not stem from mood at all, but from underlying retinal issues, which are more prevalent among individuals with bipolar disorder and could lead to squinting or changes in visual focus.

Eye Changes During Depressive Episodes

While manic phases get the most attention, depressive and psychotic episodes in bipolar disorder can also manifest in the eyes. Reported changes include:

• Constricted pupils, often due to low norepinephrine levels.

• A blank or disconnected stare, especially in cases of catatonia or severe depression.

• Dry eyes and squinting, which may result from changes in tear production.

• Lagging or slowed eye movements, which can make the person appear disengaged or “bored.”

• Intense staring or tunnel vision during moments of dissociation.

These symptoms don’t happen to everyone, and they may not appear consistently, even within the same individual.

Why the Eyes Might Change

Several overlapping factors could explain the fluctuations seen in "bipolar eyes":

• Sleep deprivation from manic insomnia may lead to visual strain and muscle fatigue in the eyes.

• Medication side effects especially from tricyclic antidepressants or stimulants can dilate pupils or affect tear production.

• Stress hormones alone can alter pupil size and eye behavior, even in people without bipolar disorder.

In other words, while the eyes may subtly reflect inner turmoil or elevated moods, they’re not a standalone diagnostic tool. These changes are contextual clues, not confirmations.

Should You Rely on Eye Changes as a Symptom?

Despite growing curiosity around the idea, current mental health guidelines do not consider eye appearance a reliable indicator for diagnosing or monitoring bipolar disorder. Diagnosis and treatment rely on a comprehensive evaluation of mood patterns, behavior, sleep, speech, and energy levels not just how someone looks.

Still, if you or someone you care about seems to exhibit sudden and dramatic shifts in mood alongside noticeable changes in eye contact, focus, or gaze, it may be worth discussing with a mental health professional.

Key Takeaways

• The term “bipolar eyes” refers to anecdotal observations of pupil dilation, brightness, or altered gaze during mood episodes.

• While some physiological explanations exist, eye changes alone are not diagnostic of bipolar disorder.

• Both manic and depressive phases can affect the eyes, but other factors like stress, fatigue, and medication also play a role.

• When in doubt, a mental health professional should always be your first point of contact for any suspected symptoms of bipolar disorder.

To receive more science-backed wellness insights, subscribe to our newsletter.