Bipolar mood disorder.

What is it?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition marked by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These shifts in mood can affect energy, activity levels, behavior, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. The condition is chronic but manageable with treatment and lifestyle support.

Prevalence and statistics

• Affects about 1–2% of the global population.

• Onset typically occurs between ages 15 and 30.

• Up to 60% of individuals with bipolar disorder experience recurrence without treatment.

• Suicide risk is 15 times higher than the general population in untreated individuals.

How to identify?

Emotional signs –

• Sudden mood swings from high to low and vice versa, sometimes in same day.

• Irritability or overly euphoric mood during manic episodes

• Deep sadness, hopelessness during depressive phases

Physical signs –

• Increased energy and decreased need for sleep during mania

• Fatigue or slowed physical movement during depression

• Changes in appetite and sleep patterns in both phases

Behavioral signs –

• Impulsive or risky behaviors during mania (e.g., spending sprees, unprotected sex)

• Social withdrawal and loss of interest in activities during depression

• Rapid speech or pressured talking during manic episodes

Cognitive signs –

• Grandiose thoughts or unrealistic plans during mania

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions in either phase

• Suicidal thoughts during depressive episodes

Request appointment