Understanding bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes intense shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These changes aren’t just “ups and downs”—they’re cycles of depression and mania (or hypomania) that can disrupt everyday life, including the ability to maintain stable, healthy relationships.
Manic episodes may include impulsive decisions, irritability, or risky behavior, while depressive episodes can lead to withdrawal, low self-worth, and a loss of interest in connecting with others. These shifts can be hard to predict and even harder for loved ones to understand.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), bipolar disorder affects nearly 3% of the United States population each year and often begins before the age of 25. When left untreated, it can make forming or maintaining intimate and supportive relationships incredibly challenging.