Bipolar disorder
A mood disorder involving episodes of depression and episodes of mania or hypomania: distinct periods of elevated mood, energy, and activity.
Category: Conditions
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is defined by mood episodes, not day-to-day mood swings. Manic episodes involve elevated or irritable mood, reduced need for sleep, racing thoughts, and risky behaviour, lasting days to weeks.
Key things to know
Bipolar I involves full manic episodes; bipolar II involves hypomania (a milder form) with depressive episodes. The depressive phases are often what brings people to care.
- Defined by mood episodes lasting days to weeks, not day-to-day mood swings.
- Mania: elevated or irritable mood, little need for sleep, racing thoughts, risky behaviour.
- Bipolar II involves hypomania, a milder high, plus depressive episodes.
- Diagnosis and treatment need a psychiatrist; mood stabilisers are the core.
- Stable sleep and routine measurably reduce relapse risk.
What helps
Diagnosis and treatment require a psychiatrist. Mood stabilisers are the core of treatment, alongside psychotherapy and stable routines. Self-diagnosis from mood swings alone is unreliable.
How SelfMind can help
SelfMind is an AI companion for everyday mental health support: a private place to talk through what you are feeling, in Hindi, English or Hinglish, at any hour. It is not therapy and not a crisis service; it works alongside professional care, never in place of it. You can try it free, no account needed.
Related terms
This entry is educational information, not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment plan. For assessment and treatment, consult a qualified mental health professional. If you are in crisis, see our crisis resources. In India, Tele-MANAS is free at 14416, 24x7.