Hi, Thanks for using the HCM. I am happy to address your questions, bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression) causes serious shifts in mood, energy, thinking, and behaviour from the highs of mania on one extreme, to the lows of depression on the other. More than just a fleeting good or bad mood, the cycles of bipolar disorder last for days, weeks, or months. And unlike ordinary mood swings, the mood changes of bipolar disorder are so intense that they interfere with your ability to function. During a manic episode, a person might impulsively quit a job, charge up huge amounts on credit cards, or feel rested after sleeping two hours. During a depressive episode, the same person might be too tired to get out of bed and full of self-loathing and hopelessness over being unemployed and in debt. The causes of bipolar disorder aren’t completely understood, but it often runs in families. The first manic or depressive episode of bipolar disorder usually occurs in the teenage years or early adulthood. The symptoms can be subtle and confusing, so many people with bipolar disorder are overlooked or misdiagnosed resulting in unnecessary suffering. But with proper treatment and support, you can lead a rich and fulfilling life. Many factors are involved in diagnosing bipolar disorder. Your clinician may need to ask about your family history, your recent mood swings and for how long you ve had them, perform a thorough examination to look for illnesses that may be causing the symptoms, run laboratory tests to check for thyroid problems or drug levels, talk to your family members about your behaviour, take a medical history, including any medical problems you have and any medications you taken, watch your behavior and mood. Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help. Thanks