What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes changes in a persons mood, energy and ability to function. People with bipolar disorder experience intense emotional states that typically occur during distinct periods of days to weeks, called mood episodes. These mood episodes are categorized as manic/hypomanic which means abnormally happy or irritable mood. Or depressive episodes where a person experiences intense sad mood. People with bipolar disorder generally have periods of neutral mood as well. When treated, people with bipolar disorder can lead full and productive lives. 

Often there are extreme degree of behavior change or difficulty with daily routines and social interactions. Bipolar disorder can disrupt a persons relationships with loved ones and cause difficulty in working or going to school. Often 80 to 90% of individuals with bipolar disorder have a relative with bipolar disorder or depression i.e. it runs in families.I will talk more about bipolar disorder and it's different categories in my next post so stay tuned.