If not treated adequately, death through suicide is a very real possibility in the severely depressed person with bipolar disorder. Yes, bipolar disorder tends to run in families. It is quite likely that people with bipolar disorder have close relatives who also have bipolar disorder or depressed moods. Bipolar disorder is equally common in men and women in the United States. The first episode in men is usually a manic episode.
Women are more likely to experience depression as a first episode of their bipolar disorder.
It is important to the therapist to learn the details that surround any stressful event or events in that person's life. Most people with mania show hyperactivity in their thoughts, words, and actions. They usually speak rapidly and are commonly over-talkative. The manic phase of bipolar disorder, with its elevated or euphoric mood, usually begins over a period of one to two weeks. Severe irritability may cause some people with mania to experience and express rage quickly.