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Other Disorders
 

Bipolar Disorder

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar Disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a serious medical illness that causes shifts in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function. Different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through, the symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. more>>

Signs & Symptoms

Bipolar disorder causes dramatic mood swings from overly "high" and/or irritable to sad and hopeless, and then back again, often with periods of normal mood in between. Severe changes in energy and behavior go along with these changes in mood. The periods of highs and lows are called episodes of mania and depression. more>>

Treatment

Most people with bipolar disorder can achieve substantial stabilization of their mood swings and related symptoms over time with proper treatment. A strategy that combines medication and psychosocial treatment is optimal for managing the disorder over time. more>>

Getting Help: Locate Services

Locate mental health services in your area, affordable healthcare, NIMH clinical trials, and listings of professionals and organizations. more>>

Related Information
Abstract image of depression and mania
Publications/Resource Materials

Read, print, or order NIMH booklets, fact sheets, and other publications on bipolar disorder such as:

A Story of Bipolar Disorder
An easy-to-read booklet with a personal story on bipolar disorder—includes a checklist of symptoms and tips on getting help.

Bipolar Disorder
A detailed booklet that describes symptoms, causes, and treatments, with information on getting help and coping.

More Publications>>

Bipolar Research
 
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Updated: 08/31/2004
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