Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health condition marked by extreme mood swings that include manic highs and depressive lows. This disorder affects energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. During manic episodes, individuals may feel euphoric, energized, and unusually irritable, while depressive episodes bring feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and fatigue. Anxiety is a common and often debilitating symptom that can occur during both manic and depressive phases, complicating the disorder further.

There are three main types of bipolar disorder: Bipolar I, characterized by severe manic episodes and often depressive episodes; Bipolar II, featuring less intense hypomanic episodes along with depressive episodes; and Cyclothymic Disorder, which involves milder symptoms that do not meet the criteria for full manic or depressive episodes.

Bipolar disorder typically emerges in late adolescence or early adulthood, though it can also appear in children. Effective treatment involves a combination of medications such as mood stabilizers and antipsychotics, and psychotherapy, which helps manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Recognizing the signs of bipolar disorder and seeking timely professional care is crucial for managing this lifelong condition.

Understanding bipolar disorder and its symptoms, especially the role of anxiety, is essential for effective management and improving patient outcomes.