Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by periods of depression and periods of mania or hypomania. During manic or hypomanic periods, people experience hyperactivity, impulsivity, and overly optimistic or irritable moods. Depressive periods involve symptoms of major depression like difficulty concentrating and suicidal thoughts. Bipolar disorder can be difficult to diagnose and treatment often involves medication and therapy to help manage mood swings and related issues. Living with bipolar disorder is challenging but possible to do successfully with proper treatment and lifestyle management.

1. Bipolar By: Faizah Thernize

3. Mania (manic phase): People in the Manic Phase of the bipolar disorder are easily agitated and irritated. Little things that would usually not be a problem now become very annoying and problematic.

15. Bipolar I Disorder (mania or a mixed episode) – The classic manic-depressive form of the illness, characterized by at least one manic episode or mixed episode. Usually—but not always—Bipolar I Disorder also involves at least one episode of depression.

16. Bipolar II Disorder (hypomania and depression) – In Bipolar II disorder, the person doesn’t experience full-blown manic episodes. Instead, the illness involves episodes of hypomania and severe depression.

17. Cyclothymia (hypomania and mild depression) – Cyclothymia is a milder form of bipolar disorder. It consists of cyclical mood swings. However, the symptoms are less severe than full-blown mania or depression.

18. Bipolar disorder is a complex condition. Diagnosis can be tricky and treatment is often difficult. For safety reasons, medication should be closely monitored. A psychiatrist who is skilled in bipolar disorder treatment can help you navigate these twists and turns.

19. - Thyroid disorders -Corticosteroids -Antidepressants -Adrenal disorders (e.g. Addison’s disease, Cushing’s syndrome) Medical conditions and medications that can mimic the symptoms of bipolar disorder: - Antianxiety drugs -Drugs for Parkinson’s disease -Vitamin B12 deficiency -Neurological disorders (e.g. epilepsy, multiple sclerosis)