Bipolar disorder

Updated: 2024-08-14

Description

A mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).

Overview

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). The frequency of episodes varies. In some cases, mania may cause a break from reality called psychosis. Different types of bipolar disorder include type 1, type 2, cyclothymia and other types.

Symptoms

Symptoms include mania or less extreme mania called hypomania, depression, unpredictable mood and behavior, and anxious distress. Symptoms can vary from person to person. While the manic episodes of bipolar I disorder can be severe and dangerous, people with bipolar II disorder can be depressed for longer periods of time.

Treatments

Treatment aims to manage symptoms. Treatments include medicines, talk therapy, day programs, getting help to manage alcohol or substance misuse, and a stay in a hospital if needed. Medicines may include mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs.