Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. People with bipolar disorder experience periods of intense highs, known as manic episodes, and periods of extreme lows, known as depressive episodes.

The manic episodes are characterized by elevated mood, increased energy, and impulsive behavior. People experiencing mania will experience a decreased need for sleep and an excessive amount of energy. They may engage in impulsive and reckless behavior, exhibit rapid speech, have racing thoughts, as well as a heightened sense of self-importance and grandiosity.

The depressive episodes are marked by feelings of sadness, despair, and loss of interest in activities, such as would be experienced with depression.