bipolar spectrum

The bipolar spectrum refers to a range of mood disorders characterized by significant changes in energy, activity, and mood. People on this spectrum experience episodes of depression—feeling very sad or empty—and periods of mania or hypomania—feeling unusually energized, confident, or irritable. These mood shifts can vary in intensity and duration. Instead of a single type of bipolar disorder, the spectrum includes different conditions with overlapping symptoms, highlighting that mood regulation issues can present in diverse ways across individuals. Understanding this spectrum helps in accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment.