Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive disorder, is a mental illness that affects mood, behavior, thoughts and perceptions of an individual, resulting in abnormal changes in energy, mood and functioning (Huxley, 2002). The symptoms of bipolar disorder are serious and can lead to broken relationships, poor academic or professional performance, and even suicide in extreme cases. However, bipolar disorder is treatable and people with the condition can lead productive and fulfilling lives. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay Approximately 5.7 million American adults, or approximately 2.6% of the population aged 18 and older, experience bipolar disorder each year (NIMH, 2009) . It is more common in early adulthood and in people who have reached puberty. However, some people may experience their first symptoms during childhood, while others may develop them later in life. Bipolar disorder is often not recognized as an illness and individuals may go undiagnosed and untreated for years. Similar to other chronic illnesses, bipolar disorder requires careful management throughout an individual's life (NIMH, 2009). Bipolar disorder is characterized by dramatic mood swings, from extreme highs to lows, and often includes periods of normal mood in between. These mood swings are followed by cycles of relapse and remission, with relapses lasting approximately three to six months. These episodes may be depressive, hypomanic, manic, or a combination of both, and may also include psychotic symptoms (MFMER, 2008). Bipolar I disorder is characterized by alternating episodes of full-blown mania and major depressive episodes. Depression usually occurs first, followed by mania, or vice versa. Bipolar II disorder is characterized by at least one major depressive episode and one hypomanic episode. Hypomanic episodes can sometimes occur as a recurring depressive state, accompanied by symptoms such as elevated mood, increased energy, and reduced need for sleep. Other features of bipolar disorder include seasonal patterns of overeating or undereating, insomnia, and a lack of appetite during depressive phases (NIMH, 2009). Manic episodes are characterized by elevated, irritable, and persistently elevated mood, as well as other symptoms such as grandiosity, reduced need for sleep, increased talkativeness, racing thoughts, increased goal-directed activity, and engagement in pleasurable activities. with potential negative consequences (Goodwin, 2000). Patients in manic episodes may exhibit energetic and colorful behavior, speak with authority, and have difficulty staying on a topic. They often engage in impulsive and risky behaviors without considering the potential consequences (Goodwin, 2000). Hypomanic episodes are characterized by a mixed state of manic and depressive symptoms, such as temporary changes in tears during manic episodes or racing thoughts during depressive phases. In some cases, the entire episode may be mixed, with symptoms including lack of sleep, heightened mood, occasional crying, deep worry, nervous agitation, impulsivity, suicidal thoughts, and confusion ( NIMH, 2009). People with bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of suicide. Warning signs include.