Bipolar disorder

Episodes of depression alternating with mania or hypomania, usually managed long-term with medication and therapy.

What it is

Bipolar disorder involves mood episodes that go well beyond ordinary ups and downs — sustained highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression) that last days to weeks and are noticeable to people around the person, not just an abrupt mood swing.

Common signs

Periods of unusually high energy, reduced need for sleep, or rapid speech and ideas
Increased impulsivity or risk-taking during high periods
Periods of depression that meet the same criteria as depression on its own
Mood episodes that last days to weeks, not hours
A family history of bipolar disorder — a meaningful risk factor, not a guarantee

Good to know

A diagnosis takes time and a conversation with a care provider — there's no blood test or scan for it, and several other conditions can look similar at first, including ADHD and severe anxiety.

What helps

Long-term management usually combines medication with therapy, plus consistent sleep and avoiding substances that can trigger episodes. Learning to recognize your own early warning signs makes a significant difference in how early treatment can step in.

When to seek help

If mood swings are lasting days to weeks rather than hours, and are noticeably disrupting work, relationships, or judgment, that's worth a full assessment rather than waiting to see if it passes.

Before you call

What to expect at your first counselling sessionNervous about a first session? It's mostly just talking, at your pace. Here's what usually happens — and what won't.

Services that can help

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