Bipolar Disorder is a serious life long mental health condition which features pronounced mood swings. The condition was formerly known as manic depression. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that the condition affects 2.9% of Australians aged 16 and over, or 568,000 people.

According to the Black Dog Institute, a leading research body based at Sydney’s Prince of Wales Hospital, bipolar disorder is largely inherited through genetics, and can be triggered by factors including stress, pregnancy, and illicit drug use.

Typical treatment for Bipolar includes medication prescribed by a psychiatrist, psychological therapies such as counselling, and education for families and friends. Although there is no cure for the condition, it can be well managed, and people who receive the proper treatments are generally able to work, have families, and participate in all aspects of community life.