Bipolar disorder involves episodes of mania and depression. Depression episodes are more common and last longer than mania episodes, causing depressed mood, sleep issues, weight loss, agitation, and suicidal thoughts. Mania episodes involve extremely high energy levels and risk-taking behavior. There are two main types - type 1 with extreme mood swings and type 2 with milder and shorter mania periods. Treatment involves medication and therapy to manage moods, though lingering symptoms may remain, making it a major public health issue due to costs of treatment and risk of non-compliance. Positive treatment outcomes depend on a strong therapeutic relationship and consideration of family/social factors.