Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings. These mood changes include emotional highs (called mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). It is more than just feeling happy or sad—these shifts can affect a person’s energy levels, thinking, behavior, and daily activities.
During a manic episode, a person may feel overly happy, talkative, have lots of energy, and may not sleep much. They may also make risky decisions. On the other hand, during a depressive episode, they may feel very sad, tired, hopeless, and may not want to do anything they once enjoyed.