Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is characterized by severe mood swings. A person with this disorder suffers from periods of depression and mania. Their moods range from high to low.
Basics
Bipolar disorder creates chaos in every area of the person's life, including with friends, family, work and school.
Types
Bipolar I disorder consists of major depressive episodes, mixed episodes and mania; however, you can be diagnosed with bipolar I without having a depressive episode. Bipolar II disorder consists of major depressive episodes and hypomania, which is a mild or moderate form of mania.
Symptoms of Major Depressive Episodes
Extreme feelings of sadness, worthlessness and hopelessness; issues with sleeping and eating; and thoughts of suicide are all symptoms of a major depressive episode.
Symptoms of Mania
Symptoms of mania include feeling extremely happy or irritable, racing thoughts, needing very little sleep and participating in risky behaviors. Someone in a manic phase might spend all her savings, have sex with multiple partners and drive recklessly.
Warning
Left undiagnosed and untreated, there is a high rate of suicide. Seek the help of a licensed mental health professional.
