Introduction to bipolar disorder Bipolar disorder, otherwise
known as manic depression or bipolar depression, is a relatively
common mood disorder that affects about 5.7 million Americans.
Characterized by episodes of depression alternating with
euphoric (manic) states, the symptoms of bipolar disorder are
varied and often affect an individual's daily functioning and
interpersonal relationships. Bipolar disorder symptoms include
depression and feelings of hopelessness during the depressive
phase of the condition. Other depressive symptoms include
thoughts of suicide, alterations in sleep patterns, and loss of
interest in activities that once were a source of pleasure. What
differentiates bipolar disorder from major depression is the
occurrence of manic episodes, often described as emotional
"highs," between the episodes of depression. Symptoms of manic
states are varied and include restlessness, increased energy,
euphoric mood, racing thoughts, poor judgment, intrusive or
provocative behavior, difficulty conc