What are the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder?

Answer:

Bipolar disorder causes dramatic mood swings from overly "high" and/or irritable to sad and hopeless, and then back again, often with periods of normal mood in between. Severe changes in energy and behavior go along with these changes in mood. The periods of highs and lows are called episodes of mania and depression.

Learn More: 

• Bipolar Disorder (National Institute of Mental Health)
• Children's Mental Health Facts: Bipolar Disorder (SAMHSA)
• Family Guide: Bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness) (SAMHSA)

Last Updated: 5/7/2008