Occasionally people can experience a mixture of both highs and lows at the same time, or switch during the day, giving a mixed picture.

A small number of people with Bipolar Disorder (5%) experience only the 'highs', whereas the vast majority of Bipolar sufferers alternate between highs and lows.

Some people may only have one episode of mania once a decade, while others may have daily mood swings. For each individual the pattern is quite distinct.

People with Bipolar Disorder experience normal moods in between their swings.

Women and men develop Bipolar I Disorder at equal rates while the rate of Bipolar II is somewhat higher in females.

Bipolar Disorder can commence in childhood, but onset is commoner in the teens or early 20s. Some people develop their first episode in mid-to-late adulthood. Many people go for years before it is accurately diagnosed or treated (see How to tell if you have Bipolar Disorder)

Women with Bipolar Disorder have a very high chance of a significant mood disturbance both during pregnancy and in the post-partum period - most commonly in the first four weeks. (Most will have a depressive episode, a significant proportion will have highs, and 10% will have mixed highs and lows.)

With the right treatment, the vast majority of people with Bipolar Disorder are able, to varying extents, to live normal and productive lives.

Some people with Bipolar Disorder can become suicidal. It is very important that talk of suicide be taken seriously and for such people to be treated immediately by a mental health professional or other appropriate person.