Bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of mania or hypomania and depression. Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects a person’s mood, energy, activity and thought and is characterized by manic (or hypomanic) and depressive episodes. Learning about bipolar disorder, also known as psychoeducation, can help you and your loved ones know more about the condition. Knowing what's going on can help you get the best support, find issues, make a plan to stop symptoms from returning and stick with treatment. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong mental health condition with episodes of high energy (mania or hypomania) and low mood (depression). Symptoms may disrupt your sleep, activities and daily life. Learn about NIMH research on bipolar disorder. Find resources on the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder, types, and potential treatments and therapies. Information on bipolar disorder including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and resources to find help for yourself or others. What is bipolar disorder? Bipolar disorder, which used to be called manic depressive illness or manic depression, is a mental health disorder often characterized by wide mood swings from high (manic) to low (depressed). Key signs of bipolar disorder include distinct periods of elevated mood (mania or hypomania) and periods of depression, which can impact energy, sleep, behavior, and overall well-being. Find out about bipolar disorder, including symptoms, how it's diagnosed and treatments. Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depression, is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings. These include emotional highs, also known as mania or hypomania, and lows, also known as depression.