EDIT************ Bipolar disorder is characterized by moods that can swing from depression to mania, usually with periods of normal moods in between. The episodes of either depression or mania can last anywhere from hours to months. Approximately 2% of Canadians will be diagnosed with bipolar disorder in their lifetime. Generally men and women are equally diagnosed with bipolar disorder but men tend to describe experiences of mania and women will generally describe depression. The mortality rate of people with bipolar disorder is two to three times higher than the general population.  When we talk about diagnosis and treatment, on average a person will see four doctors before obtaining the correct diagnosis of bipolar disorder. There is a spectrum of types of bipolar disorder. Some types you might hear about are: bipolar I, which is mania and depressive episodes with or without psychosis; bipolar II, which is characterized by episodes of major depression alternating with episodes of hypomania which are not severe enough to impair functioning;  cyclothymia, a milder form of bipolar characterized by brief episodes of depression and hypomania. Cyclothymia can also be described as minor cyclic mood disorder. 
 

Bipolar Factsheets:

Effects on the Family

Future Manic Episodes

Medications

Myths and the Facts

Preventing Risky Behaviours

Types of Bipolar Disorder

What Causes Bipolar Disorder

What Does it Feel Like