What is a key feature of bipolar disorder?

A key feature of bipolar disorder is the presence of episodes of mania or hypomania that alternate with depressive episodes. This cyclical pattern differentiates bipolar disorder from other mood disorders. Mania is characterized by an excessively elevated mood, increased energy, and often impulsive behavior, while hypomania is a milder form of mania. During depressive episodes, the individual may experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in usually pleasurable activities.

In contrast, consistent low mood without noticeable changes suggests a more chronic depressive condition, which does not align with the episodic nature of bipolar disorder. Chronic anxiety without mood swings indicates a different type of mental health condition altogether, as anxiety disorders typically do not involve the dramatic mood changes seen in bipolar disorder. Recurrent depression without any episodes of mania fits the criteria for major depressive disorder rather than bipolar disorder, which necessitates the presence of manic or hypomanic episodes. Thus, the alternating episodes of mania or hypomania with depressive episodes remain the defining characteristic of bipolar disorder.