How do you know if you have bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder or Manic Depression, can be hard to diagnose, as traditional psychiatric testing doesn't always "catch" a large number of people. It is usually diagnosed from a patient's history. A person with this disorder will have manic episodes where they require less sleep, feel super-energized, more talkative, and may engage more in risky behavior.

Manic episodes can last from minutes to weeks, months, or -- in rarer instances -- even years if left untreated. The person will also suffer from a letdown or depressive phase. In this portion of time, it can become difficult to make decisions; memory will be dulled, and a feeling of hopelessness may ensue. It is imperative that a trained mental-health practitioner be consulted regarding the diagnosis and treatment of this condition.