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Dr Henderson's A-Z of Modern Maladies: Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder (often called manic depression) affects about one in 100 people in the UK. It causes moods to swing from one extreme to the other, from depression to mania. The length of time between those swings varies between individuals, but commonly is several weeks. It occurs in both sexes and often first appears in the 18-24 age group. Its cause is unclear, although it can run in families.

What are the symptoms?

The initial phase is usually depression, leading to fatigue, profound sadness, low self-esteem and occasionally suicidal thoughts. In the manic phase, excitability, unlimited energy, euphoria and self-importance predominate.

What is the treatment?

Diagnosis is by specialist psychiatric assessment. If left untreated, cycles of depression and mania can last for up to a year, but with treatment, episodes usually improve within three months. Lithium is the most common medication. Anticonvulsants and antidepressants can also be