10 Things to Know About Bipolar Disorder

Fast facts to help kickstart treatment.

Posted January 20, 2019 | Reviewed by Matt Huston

1. Its clinical name. Bipolar Disorder is sometimes referred to by its older clinical name, Manic Depression . Bipolar Disorder is a mood disorder that greatly interferes with the quality of life for a child or adult.

2. There are three types of Bipolar Disorder.

3. Mania. This involves, at its core, an elevated state of mood and energy or activity. The type of Bipolar Disorder diagnosis will depend on the texture of the mania:

4. Episodes. Children and adults with Bipolar Disorder experience unusually intense emotional states that occur in distinct periods called mood episodes . An overly excited state is called a manic episode or hypomanic episode, and an extremely sad or hopeless state is called a depressive episode.

5. Mixed States. Individuals can experience mania/hypomania and depression at the same time. This is called a mixed state. Children and adults in a mixed state may feel very sad or hopeless while also feeling extremely energized.

6. Cycling. There are two types of mood elevation cycles that individuals who have a type of Bipolar Disorder move through.

7. Medication . Scientific research urges medication management as a vital part of the treatment of Bipolar Disorders. Specifically, the use of a mood stabilizer and antidepressant medications are recommended in all phases of treatment — for children as well as adults.

8. Psychotherapy . Along with medication management, psychotherapy is recommended to manage Bipolar Disorder. Evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Family-Focused Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, and Psychoeducational Approaches are recommended.

9. Self-Care. Living with Bipolar Disorder requires a child or an adult to manage this chronic illness . Learning how to take care of one's self is important. In addition to eating well, keeping a healthy sleep cycle and exercising, creating time to nurture one's mind, body, and soul is helpful.

10. Continuity of Care. Bipolar Depression is a treatable illness. With proper diagnosis and treatment, people with Bipolar Disorder can lead healthy and productive lives. However, research indicates that upwards of 50% of individuals abandon psychotherapy and/or medication. "Feeling better," missing the euphoric highs, or not liking the side effects of medication are often reasons why this happens. As a result, many will experience a worsening of their symptoms and quality-of-life difficulties will persist. Continuity of care is an important factor in the success of Bipolar Disorder and needs to be a priority.

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Deborah Serani, Psy.D. , is a psychologist and psychoanalyst who lives with depression and specializes in its diagnosis and treatment.

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This article is part of the Bringwise Psychology Journal — daily insights on human behavior, mental health, and personal growth.