Bipolar disorder explained

This section contains the latest information on Bipolar Disorder, based on the Black Dog Institute's research and clinical observations.

You will find:

For General Practitioners, we provide a special comprehensive section on Bipolar Disorder, incorporating management approaches.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar Disorder is the name used to describe a set of 'mood swing' conditions, the most severe form of which used to be called 'manic depression'.

Bipolar Disorder I is the more severe disorder - with individuals being more likely to experience mania, have longer ''highs', be more likely to have psychotic experiences and be more likely to be hospitalised.

Bipolar Disorder II is generally viewed as less severe, with no psychotic experiences, and with episodes tending to last only hours to a few days, but longitudinal studies suggest impairment is often as severe as in Bipolar I Disorder.

The high moods are called mania or hypomania and the low mood is called depression.

It is important to note that everyone has mood swings from time to time. It is only when these moods become extreme and interfere with personal and professional life that Bipolar Disorder may be present and medical assessment may be warranted.

Other key points about Bipolar Disorder

Occasionally people can experience a mixture of both highs and lows at the same time, or switch during the day, giving a mixed picture.
A small number of people with Bipolar Disorder (5%) experience only the 'highs', whereas the vast majority of Bipolar sufferers alternate between highs and lows.
Some people may only have one episode of mania once a decade, while others may have daily mood swings. For each individual the pattern is quite distinct.
People with Bipolar Disorder experience normal moods in between their swings.
Women and men develop Bipolar I Disorder at equal rates while the rate of Bipolar II is somewhat higher in females.
Bipolar Disorder can commence in childhood, but onset is commoner in the teens or early 20s. Some people develop their first episode in mid-to-late adulthood. Many people go for years before it is accurately diagnosed or treated (see How to tell if you have Bipolar Disorder)
Women with Bipolar Disorder have a very high chance of a significant mood disturbance both during pregnancy and in the post-partum period - most commonly in the first four weeks. (Most will have a depressive episode, a significant proportion will have highs, and 10% will have mixed highs and lows.)
With the right treatment, the vast majority of people with Bipolar Disorder are able, to varying extents, to live normal and productive lives.
Some people with Bipolar Disorder can become suicidal. It is very important that talk of suicide be taken seriously and for such people to be treated immediately by a mental health professional or other appropriate person. See Getting Help and Emergency Help.

See our self-assessment test for Bipolar Disorder

Read about

View a chart comparing the differences between depression and mania.

Links and resources

Parker, G. (2008) Bipolar II Disorder: Modelling, Measuring and Managing. Cambridge University Press
National Institute of Mental Health (US) - We believe this to be one of the best available sources of internet information on Bipolar Disorder

Please note that the information in this section (or anywhere on this site) is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, so please see a qualified health provider if you have any health concerns. Read our full terms and conditions.