Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness is a serious mood disorder that affects 1-2% of the population. The condition is called 'bipolar' disorder, because the person's mood can alternate between 'two poles' of extreme mood states from mania
(highs) to depression (lows). During the manic episode people are overly happy or irritable while during the depressive episode they feel very sad and hopeless. In between episodes people may have normal moods. The changes in mood or 'mood swings' can last for hours, days, weeks or months. In contrast to the normal 'ups and downs' in healthy persons, these mood swings can be severe and life threatening and interfere with normal, healthy functioning.
Although, bipolar disorder can affect any one at any age, it typically begins in late adolescence or early adulthood. It is often not recognized as an illness and people who have it may suffer needlessly for years or even decades. When left untreated the illness can have devastating consequences such as alcohol and substance abuse, damaged relationships, poor work or school performance, financial and social problems and increased risk of suicide.
However with accurate diagnosis, effective treatment and proper support many people with bipolar disorder can obtain stabilization of their mood swings and lead normal, productive and fulfilling lives.
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Bipolar disorder.
