Bipolar disorder

Everyone experiences changes in their mood but bipolar disorder can change your mood dramatically, affecting every part of your life. You will feel extreme highs and lows sometimes lasting for months at a time. You may feel well between these times.

Overview of bipolar disorder

This section provides information about bipolar disorder. How it is diagnosed, possible causes and where to get further information and support.

Bipolar disorder was previously called manic depression. It is also sometimes known as bipolar affective disorder
It causes your mood to change from manic highs to lows of depression
Symptoms of mania can include excitement, impulsive behaviour and agitation
Symptoms of depression can include lack of energy, feelings of worthlessness and suicidal thoughts
You can also have psychotic symptoms with bipolar disorder
There are many different causes such as genetics and environment