At times, a person who has bipolar disorder may feel very happy, full of energy and able to do anything. The person might not… » »   

There are several kinds of bipolar disorder. Each kind is defined by the length, frequency and pattern of episodes of mania and depression.

The three main things that make bipolar disorder different from ordinary mood swings are:

Intensity: Mood swings that come with bipolar disorder… » »   

Bipolar disorder can affect people of all ages.  It may begin as early as infancy.  When the disorder begins in childhood or early adolescence,… » »   

Bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression) is a treatable illness marked by extreme changes in mood, thought, energy and behavior. It is not… » »   

Anyone with bipolar disorder should be under the care of a psychiatrist skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Other mental health… » »   

Some people with bipolar disorder receive medication and/or psychosocial therapy by volunteering to participate in clinical studies (clinical trials). Clinical studies involve the scientific… » »   

As an addition to medication, psychosocial treatments—including certain forms of psychotherapy (or “talk” therapy)—are helpful in providing support, education, and guidance to people with… » »   

In situations where medication, psychosocial treatment, and the combination of these interventions prove ineffective, or work too slowly to relieve severe symptoms such as… » »   

Alcohol and drug abuse are very common among people with bipolar disorder. Research findings suggest that many factors may contribute to these substance abuse… » »