Bipolar disorder is an illness that produces dramatic swings in mood (amongst other symptoms). A person with bipolar disorder will alternate between periods of mania (elevated mood) and periods of depression (feelings of intense sadness). In between these two extremes, a person will have periods of normal mood.
A disorder associated with episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs.

Very common

More than 10 million cases per year (India)

Treatment can help, but this condition can't be cured

Chronic: can last for years or be lifelong

Requires a medical diagnosis

Lab tests or imaging not required

The exact cause of bipolar disorder isn’t known, but a combination of genetics, environment and altered brain structure and chemistry may play a role.

Manic episodes may include symptoms such as high energy, reduced need for sleep and loss of touch with reality. Depressive episodes may include symptoms such as low energy, low motivation and loss of interest in daily activities. Mood episodes last days to months at a time and may also be associated with suicidal thoughts.

Treatment is usually lifelong and often involves a combination of medications and psychotherapy.

Symptoms Requires a medical diagnosis Manic episodes may include symptoms such as high energy, reduced need for sleep and loss of touch with reality. Depressive episodes may include symptoms such as low energy, low motivation and loss of interest in daily activities. Mood episodes last days to months at a time and may also be associated with suicidal thoughts. www.google.co.in/search?q=Bipolar+disorder 11 September 2017 Page 2 of 2 People may experience: Mood: anger, anxiety, apathy, apprehension, euphoria, general discontent, guilt, hopelessness, loss of interest, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, mood swings, sadness, or elevated mood Behavioural: aggression, agitation, crying, excess desire for sex, hyperactivity, impulsivity, irritability, restlessness, risk-taking behaviours, or self-harm Cognitive: delusion, lack of concentration, racing thoughts, slowness in activity, or unwanted thoughts Psychological: agitated depression, depression, manic episode, or paranoia Sleep: difficulty falling asleep or excess sleepiness Weight: weight gain or weight loss Also common: false belief of superiority, fatigue, or rapid and frenzied 

Treatment consists of medications and therapy

Treatment is usually lifelong and often involves a combination of medications and psychotherapy.

Therapies

Support group, Cognitive behavioral therapy, Psychoeducation, Family therapy, and Psychotherapy

Medications

Anticonvulsant, Antipsychotic, and Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)

Supportive care

Hospitalization

Specialists

Psychiatrist, Clinical Psychologist, and Primary Care Provider (PCP)

Consult a doctor for medical advice

Sources: Apollo Hospitals and others. Learn more