Bipolar disorder, previously called manic depression, is a condition that affects your moods, which can swing from one extreme to another. If you have bipolar disorder, you will have periods, or episodes of depression... » Read on

The main symptoms of bipolar disorder are mood swings. The mood swings range from extreme happiness (mania) to extreme sadness (depression). The episodes of mania and depression can last several weeks or more. Some... » Read on

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown. However, it is thought that a complex mix of physical, environmental, and social factors are involved. Bipolar disorder seems to run in families with around 10-15% of the... » Read on

If your doctor suspects that you have bipolar disorder, you will normally be referred to a specialist. This will often be a psychiatrist. If your doctor thinks that, due to your illness, there is a risk that you could... » Read on

If left untreated, episodes of depression or mania can last for 6-12 months. On average, someone with bipolar disorder will have five or six episodes over a 20-year period. However, with effective treatment, episodes... » Read on