bipolar illness

noun

: bipolar disorder
People with bipolar illness fluctuate between two mood extremes—mania and depression.Paul Donohue

Examples of bipolar illness in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Psychiatry has gained more precise language for the diagnosis of depression and bipolar illness; this is necessary for good science and clinical care. Kay Redfield Jamison, STAT, 3 May 2024 In this loose sequel to a best-selling memoir of bipolar illness, Jamison, a writer and a psychologist, explores the process of prying a mind from disease or despair. Condé Nast, The New Yorker, 17 July 2023 Conditions include depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar illness (which may include psychotic symptoms), and substance use disorders. Christine Michel Carter, Forbes, 21 Apr. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'bipolar illness.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1972, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bipolar illness was in 1972

Dictionary Entries Near bipolar illness

Cite this Entry

“Bipolar illness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bipolar%20illness. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

bipolar illness

noun
: bipolar disorder
Bipolar illness is characterized by manic episodes of abnormally elated mood, increased energy, rapid speech, irritability, impulsivity, hostility and psychosis, and periods of severe depression.Jamie Talan, Newsday
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