Bipolar disorder can be classified according to the occurrence of manic episodes followed by hypomanic episodes or major depression. A manic episode is a distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, widespread, or irritable mood and abnormally and persistently increased goal-directed activity or energy, lasting at least 1 week and present most of the day, almost every day. days. During the specific period of mood disturbances and increased energy or activity, many symptoms are present. Here are some examples of these symptoms: - Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity, decreased need for sleep, and more talkative behavior than usual (“Bipolar and Related Disorders,” n.d.). There is a 10-15% risk of complete suicide associated with bipolar disorder (“Bipolar Depression,” 2). A mood disorder is classified as serious if it causes marked impairment in social or occupational functioning or requires hospitalization to avoid harm to oneself. or others, or if there are psychotic features. However, this episode is not attributable to the psychological effects of a substance (“Bipolar and Related Disorders,” nd). During a manic episode, individuals often do not perceive that they are ill or in need of treatment and vehemently resist efforts to be treated. Individuals may change their dress, makeup, or personal appearance to a more sexually suggestive or flamboyant style. Some people have a keener sense of smell, hearing or vision. Gambling and antisocial behavior may accompany the manic episode (“Bipolar and Related Disorders,” n.d.). A hypomanic episode is a distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and abnormally and persistently increased activity or energy, lasting at least 4 consecutive days...... middle of article.. .... the order performs worse than healthy individuals on cognitive tests (“Bipolar and Related Disorders”, nd). Although episodes of mania and depression come and go naturally, it is important to understand that bipolar disorder is a long-term illness for which there is currently no cure (“Prognosis of Bipolar Disorder,” 2011). Looking ahead, a one-year study of at least 10 bipolar medications are studied and compared to determine the best combinations (Kluger and Song, 2002). Brain scans are also being carried out to determine which lobes and regions are involved in bipolar disorder (Kluger and Song, 2002). A blood test that can detect bipolar disorder as simply as high cholesterol is being developed (Kluger and Song, 2002). A blood test will finally eliminate years of incorrect diagnoses, as well as misguided treatments (Kluger and Song, 2002).