What is bipolar disorder?

According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists in the United Kingdom, bipolar disorder or manic depression is a condition where sufferers experience mood swings that are "far beyond what most people experience in the course of their lives". So, when they are high, they are extremely elated, and when they are low, they can fall into depression.  

It affects fewer than one in 100 people and commonly occurs during the teen years and adulthood. Although the exact causes are not fully understood, it tends to run in families and illness or stressful events might trigger an episode. Between the highs and lows, sufferers will have normal periods that can last for months.

Symptoms include: depression, rapid speech and changes of subject, loss of energy or excessive energy, neglect of personal care, reckless behaviour and unusual or bizarre ideas, beliefs and experiences.

If you think a family member might have this illness, consult a doctor.

Read our confessions from a mother-of-two that struggles from manic depression.

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