Bipolar disorder was previously known as manic/depressive disorder. In the past few years, it has become the "label" used to describe a person who has wide mood swings. While it is associated with mood swings, Bipolar Disorder is an affective disorder that impairs a person's ability to function is society. The course is different for all people, but will either be one or more manic or mixed episodes accompanied by a major depressive episode. The warning signs for mania are: increased energy, speech disruption, impaired judgment, increased or decreased sexuality, changes in thougth patterns, moods, and perceptions. The warning signs for depression are: changes in sleep pattern, appetite, loss of interest in pleasurable activities, guilt, anger, frustration, helplessness, and hopelessness.