Bipolar disorder is characterized by what?

Bipolar disorder is primarily characterized by mood swings that include episodes of mania and depression. During manic phases, individuals may experience elevated mood, increased energy, and impulsive behavior, while depressive phases can lead to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a decrease in energy. The oscillation between these different mood states is a hallmark of the disorder.

While other conditions or aspects of mental health may exhibit anxiety, obsessive behavior, or insomnia, these symptoms do not encapsulate the defining nature of bipolar disorder. The key feature that distinguishes bipolar disorder is this cyclical pattern of extreme mood changes, making mood swings the most accurate description of its characteristics.