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Bipolar Disorders
Formerly known as manic depression, the term is used to describe mood swings that alternate between periods of elevated or euphoric mood (manic episodes) and periods of depression. Between these poles, periods of normal moods can occur. During a manic episode, people become restless, excited, and talkative; spend lavishly; become involved in sexual escapades; and may appear, among other things, out of character with their usual personalities. Other symptoms are rapid speech, flight of ideas (changing topics repeatedly), and an inflated sense of self-worth to the point of delusion. During these periods, they may have boundless energy and little need for sleep. After the transition into the depressive episode, they feel hopeless and are in despair. During this transition, some people commit suicide to avoid ...