Bipolar disorder, previously called manic-depression, is characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and behavior. People with this disorder may fluctuate between “up” periods (called manic episodes) and “down” periods (called depressive episodes.) Individuals may experience only some of the following symptoms at any given time.

In a manic episode, have you experienced any of the following?

• Excessively good or euphoric mood
• Racing thoughts and speech
• Little need for sleep
• Spending sprees or unusual behavior
• Unusual distractibility

In a depressive episode, have you experienced any of the following?

• Sad, anxious or empty mood
• Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in things once enjoyed
• Changes in eating and sleeping habits
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Bipolar Study

• Participants are usually allowed to continue their other medications for sleep or anxiety.
• New medications for Bipolar Depression, with minimal side effect risk