Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive disorder, is a mental illness that is characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. When it comes to bipolar disorder, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the cycling of moods between mania and depression. Mania is a state of intense, elevated, and often erratic mood and behavior, whereas depression is a state of intense sadness and low energy. The cycling between these two states is the primary symptom of bipolar disorder.
In addition to cycling between mania and depression, people with bipolar disorder may also experience periods of hypomania, which is a less severe form of mania. Hypomania is characterized by a period of elevated mood and behavior that is still within the boundaries of normalcy. People with bipolar disorder may also experience periods of depression, which is a state of intense sadness and low energy.
The cycling between these states is often unpredictable and can be difficult to manage. Treatment for bipolar disorder usually involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Medication is used to stabilize the mood swings associated with bipolar disorder, while psychotherapy can help individuals learn to manage the disorder and its symptoms.
In summary, the first thing that comes to mind when discussing bipolar disorder is the cycling of moods between mania and depression. People with bipolar disorder may also experience periods of hypomania and depression. Treatment for bipolar disorder usually involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy.