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Previously referred to as manic depression, bipolar disorder is a serious and often debilitating mental illness. There are two types of the disorder, I and II. Bipolar disorder I features periods of euphoria (elation) and mania (overexcitement) that alternate with periods of depression. In some cases, the mania is accompanied by psychosis, an impaired view of reality. Bipolar disorder II features alternating periods of depression and hypomania (a milder form of mania). Bipolar disorder affects about 2.3 million adults in the United States, negatively influencing health, careers, and relationships. Bipolar disorder has been reported in children as young as 6 years old.
What are the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder?
The intensity of signs and symptoms varies from person to person. In the manic or hypomanic phase of the disorder, the affected person may feel extremely optimistic and may believe that he or she has superhuman abilities. This phase is often accompanied by increased activity, racing thoughts and speech, increased interest in sex, agitation, restlessness, sleeplessness, inability to concentrate, irritability, and poor judgment.
The...