What types of moods can individuals with bipolar disorder experience?

Individuals with bipolar disorder can experience a range of moods that include manic, hypomanic, and depressive episodes. Manic episodes are characterized by an elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, and often risky behavior. Hypomanic episodes are similar but less severe than manic episodes. Depressive episodes involve feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of energy.

This range of moods is a hallmark of bipolar disorder, as it encompasses both the high-energy states and the low-energy states. The ability to cycle between these different mood states is what distinguishes bipolar disorder from other mood disorders. The presence of these distinct phases is essential for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, emphasizing the complexity of mood regulation in individuals with this condition. Options that suggest only one mood state or consistent moods do not align with the nature of bipolar disorder, which is defined by its mood fluctuations.