Bipolar disorder is a category of mood disorder typified by alternating episodes of mania, or extremely heightened mood, followed by periods of extreme depression. It can be the worst of both worlds, in terms of psychological disorders, as the sufferer may have to deal with strongly divergent feelings in a relatively short timespan. In addition to being taxing on the patient, it's also very hard on family and friends.
One important thing to remember if you have a bipolar loved one is that the mood swings are not his or her fault, and are not conscious decisions. Manic episodes may be typified by an increase in energy and a decrease in the sleep cycle, coupled with extravagant or irrational behavior. Depressive episodes can be overwhelming with feelings of hopelessness and despair. Generally, a bipolar sufferer will cycle back and forth several times a year, but in rare cases the cycles can be as short as a few days.
It's very important that anyone who suffers from this disorder seek treatment, both medical and psychological. The depression aspects of bipolarity obviously carry the risks of suicide that typical depression cases face, and manic episodes can take a toll on the sufferer's health as well. Careful diagnosis is the key, as some manic episodes may be mild in nature and hard to distinguish from active, cheery behavior.
Luckily, there are many medications on the market these days to help bipolar sufferers. With a careful, regimented pharmacological plan, most can lead happy, normal lives and be productive members of society.
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