VIDUSHI GUPTA

Bipolar disorder (formerly called manic-depressive illness or manic depression) is a mental illness that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, concentration, and the ability to carry out day- to-day tasks. It is associated with episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs. Manic episodes may include symptoms such as high energy, reduced need for sleep and loss of touch with reality. Depressive episodes may include symptoms such as low energy, low motivation and loss of interest in daily activities. Severe symptoms may lead to self-harm and suicidal thoughts.

Globally, 46 million people around the world have bipolar disorder. The illness is treatable but not curable. Many people go undiagnosed because of lack of awareness. The diagnosed patients are subject to indifference, cruelty, making it difficult to seek treatment. In developing countries, it is even more difficult to seek treatment subjecting to factors like poverty, over population and illiteracy.