# What is bipolar disorder?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/what-is-bipolar-disorder
For: Patients | Mental health care | Reviewed by Independent clinical reviewer, Registered mental health clinician, Kenya | Last reviewed 8 November 2026

**Answer:** Bipolar disorder is a long-term condition that affects mood, energy and thinking. People have periods of depression and periods of mania or hypomania, when they may feel unusually high or irritable, sleep little, talk fast or take risks. It is treatable: medicine and talking support help many people stay well, work and keep relationships. If you notice these patterns, see a doctor or psychiatrist for an assessment.

Sources: World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/bipolar-disorder - WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean: https://applications.emro.who.int/docs/EMRPUB_leaflet_2019_mnh_216_en.pdf

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