Introduction to Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by the presence of manic and depressive episodes, with the depressive episodes often being the most prevalent and impairing. Patients may present initially with depressive symptoms, making it crucial to differentiate bipolar disorder from major depressive disorder or other conditions. The complexity of diagnosis arises as manic symptoms can be subtle or go unnoticed, and the understanding of these symptoms varies widely, even among healthcare professionals. Accurate diagnosis involves thorough assessment, including mood history and functional impairment, and may require extended follow-up for confirmation.