online therapy for bipolar disorder (formerly called manic-depressive illness or manic depression) is a psychiatric disorder, which due to chemical imbalance in our brain, causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, concentration, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Bipolar disorder involves clear changes in mood, energy, and activity levels. These moods range from periods of extremely “up,” elated, irritable, or energised behaviour (known as manic episodes) to very “down,” sad, indifferent, or hopeless periods (known as depressive episodes). Less severe manic periods are known as hypomanic episodes, in which the person faces irritability and/or periods of anxiety. It is typically diagnosed during late adolescence or early adulthood. Occasionally, bipolar symptoms can appear in children. Bipolar disorder can also first appear during a woman’s pregnancy or following childbirth. During an episode, the symptoms last every day for most of the day. Episodes may also last for longer periods, such as several days or weeks. In a typical episode, the transition window typically lasts for 7-14 days. Although the symptoms may vary over time, bipolar disorder usually requires lifelong treatment. Following a prescribed treatment plan can help people manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.