What is Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that affects a person’s mood and energy levels.Everyone has highs and lows, but people with bipolar have extreme ups and downs in mood. These mood changes can be distressing for them and other people. They can affect how they live their life, and even put them in risky situations. Between these mood swings, however, they feel and act normally.People with bipolar disorder have times when their highs are extreme and they have too much energy. These highs are called ‘mania’ when severe, or ‘hypomania’ when less severe.Most people with bipolar disorder also have times when they feel extremely down. They can feel hopeless, helpless or empty. This is called bipolar depression.In the past, bipolar disorder was called ‘manic depression’.Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, but with the right treatment the symptoms can be well controlled.