A severe mood disorder characterized by at least one manic episode, often alternating with major depressive episodes. Affects approximately 1% of the population equally across genders. Manic episodes cause significant impairment and may include psychotic features. Associated with high suicide risk and functional disability.

• 1Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID)
• 2Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS)
• 3Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS)
• 4Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ)
• 5Medical workup to rule out medical causes
• 6Substance use screening
• 7Family history assessment

Chronic relapsing course with average 8-10 episodes over lifetime. Lithium reduces relapse rates by 30-40% and suicide risk by 80%. With maintenance treatment, 40-50% achieve good functional recovery. 15-20% of untreated patients die by suicide. Occupational disability affects 60-70% at some point. Medication non-adherence causes 60-70% of relapses. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment improve outcomes. Mixed episodes and rapid cycling associated with worse prognosis. Comorbid substance abuse in 40-60% worsens outcomes.

• Early identification of prodromal symptoms
• Consistent maintenance medication
• Regular sleep schedule
• Stress management
• Avoiding alcohol and drugs
• Psychoeducation for patient and family
• Regular psychiatric follow-up
• Mood monitoring and early intervention