Bipolar disorder tends to run in families and is believed to be inherited in many cases. Despite vigorous research efforts, a specific genetic defect associated with the disease has not yet been detected. It may be helpful to think of the various mood states in manic-depressive illness as a spectrum or continuous range. In the other extreme, mania may be the main problem and depression may occur only infrequently. Sensuality is pervasive, the desire to seduce and be seduced is irresistible.
Infectious humor ceases to amuse.
Recognition of the various mood states is essential so that the person who has manic-depressive illness can obtain effective treatment and avoid the harmful consequences of the disease, which include destruction of personal relationships, loss of employment, and suicide. Manic-depressive illness is often not recognized by the patient, relatives, friends, or even physicians. Hypomania may feel good to the person who experiences it. Thus, even when family and friends learn to recognize the mood swings, the individual often will deny that anything is wrong. Also in its early stages, bipolar disorder may masquerade as a problem other than mental illness.