Conditions
Bipolar disorder
Periods of depression and periods of high mood (mania) — how it is recognised and managed.
In plain terms
Bipolar disorder involves periods of depression and periods of elevated or high mood (mania or hypomania), with more settled periods in between. It affects around 2 in 100 people.
Signs to look for
Why it happens
Because people often seek help during the low periods, bipolar can be hard to diagnose. It helps your clinician to know about any periods of unusually high mood, not just the low times.
What helps
Mood stabilisers
Medicines such as lithium help steady mood over time and are monitored with blood tests.
Talking therapy
Therapy and psychoeducation help you recognise early warning signs.
Routine & support
Regular sleep, routine and a shared plan with your team help you stay well.
You’re not alone
A shared plan with your care team helps you spot early warning signs and act early. In Australia you can call Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636, Lifeline 13 11 14, or 000 in an emergency.
Where this information comes from
More in Conditions
See allDemonstration content — not clinician-approved. Governance-approved patient information must replace it before any clinical use or sharing.
This sheet is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow the instructions from your own doctor or pharmacist.