What Is Bipolar Disorder and What Are Its Main Mood Phases?

Updated

Bipolar disorder, also called manic depressive disorder, is a condition characterized by extreme mood swings between mania (an elevated mood) and depression. According to bipolarhome.org, it affects millions of people each year, and those who live with it experience "incredible highs (mania) and disabling lows (depression)." If you are trying to understand the basic definition and the two core mood phases before deciding whether to seek professional advice, this overview covers what the site presents.

The Two Core Mood Phases

The defining feature of bipolar disorder is the swing between two opposite poles of mood:

  • Mania (or elevated mood): The "high" phase. The site describes these as "incredible highs."
  • Depression: The "low" phase, described as "disabling lows."

The condition is named for these two poles — "bipolar" refers to the presence of both extremes rather than a single, consistent mood state.

What the Site Offers Beyond the Definition

bipolarhome.org positions itself as a complete guide covering several related areas, each aimed at helping you understand the condition better:

Section What it covers
What is bipolar disorder The basic definition and mood-swing characteristic
Symptoms Information to help you be better informed when you speak to your doctor
Diagnosis A checklist to help you prepare for a doctor's visit
Treatments and medications The various treatment options available
Bipolar and children Signs of bipolar in children and mistakes to avoid
Living with bipolar disorder Hints for daily coping, plus book and website recommendations

The site also notes a message board where you can connect with others coping with bipolar disorder.

How to Use This Information

The site frames its symptom and diagnosis content as preparation for a medical conversation — not as a substitute for one. Its stated purpose is to help you "be better informed when you speak to your doctor." If you recognize the pattern of extreme mood swings in yourself or someone else, the practical next step the site points toward is bringing that information to a qualified professional rather than self-diagnosing.

For deeper detail on any single area — symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, children, or daily living — the corresponding section of bipolarhome.org expands on what is summarized here.