Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive disorder, is a mental illness that affects an individual's mood, behavior, thoughts, and perceptions, leading to abnormal changes in energy, mood and functioning (Huxley, 2002). The symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe and can lead to broken relationships, poor school or work performance, and even suicide in extreme cases. However, bipolar disorder is treatable, and individuals with this illness can lead productive and fulfilling lives. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get Original Essay Approximately 5.7 million American adults, or approximately 2.6% of the population aged 18 and older, suffer from bipolar disorder each year (NIMH, 2009) . It is more common in early adulthood and in people who have reached puberty. However, some individuals may first experience symptoms in childhood, while others may develop them later in life. Bipolar disorder often goes unrecognized 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, ranging from extreme highs to lows, and often includes periods of normal mood in between. These mood swings are followed by cycles of relapses and remissions, with relapses lasting 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 episodes of major depression. 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 manifest as a recurring depressive state, with symptoms such as elevated mood, increased energy, and reduced need for sleep. Other characteristics of bipolar disorder include seasonal patterns of over- or undereating, insomnia, and poor appetite during depressive phases (NIMH, 2009). Manic episodes are characterized by an elevated, irritable, and persistently elevated mood, along with other symptoms such as grandiosity, reduced need for sleep, increased talkativeness, racing thoughts, increased goal-directed activity, and engagement in pleasurable activities with potential consequences negative (Goodwin, 2000). Patients in manic episodes may display energetic and colorful behavior, speak authoritatively, and have difficulty staying on 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 to crying during manic episodes or racing thoughts during depressive phases. In some cases, the entire episode may be mixed, with symptoms including lack of sleep, elevated mood, occasional crying, deep worry, nervous agitation, impulsivity, suicidal thoughts, and confusion (NIMH, 2009). higher risk of suicide. Warning signs include feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, drug abuse, donating personal property, and rearranging finances. The risk of suicide is greatest early in the disease, so early identification and treatment are crucial to reduce this risk (Parikh, 2004). The causes of bipolar disorder are complex and involving.