by 
The Curious Bag
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Though many people have simple mood swings, they are often confused with a more serious condition--bipolar disorder-- which is also called manic depression.
Identification
Bipolar disorder is determined by extreme and cyclic mood shifts. These cycles can last for days or even months and can be so strong that they interfere with your functional abilities.
Causes
Though there is no single cause for bipolar disorder, contributing factors can include stress, lack of sleep, medications and illegal drug use.
Manic Phase
The manic phase of bipolar disorder is marked by high energy that can be expressed in extreme production, uninhibited joy or tremendous anger.
Depressive Phase
The depressive phase of bipolar disorder is often marked by feelings of worthlessness, lack of interest in any activity, uncontrollable crying and even suicidal thoughts.
Types
There are three types of bipolar disorder: Type I is characterized by at least one manic and one depressive episode. In Type II, the patient has no full-blown episodes. Cyclothymic patients have normal but cyclic mood swings.
Treatment
A psychiatrist or other medical practitioner may prescribe lithium, a mood-leveler, along with other medications to lessen the severity of episodes.
Source:
National Institute of Mental Health
Dr. Khan Matin, psychiatrist, Pathways Mental Health, Ashland, Kentucky
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