Final answer:
An individual with bipolar disorder oscillates between depression and mania; specifically, mania is a period of high energy and activity levels that sharply contrasts with depressive episodes.
Step-by-step explanation:
An individual with bipolar disorder experiences shifts between states of depression and mania.
Bipolar disorder, historically known as manic depression, involves dramatic shifts in a person's mood and energy levels. Unlike other mood disorders that can lead to depressive episodes, in bipolar disorder, these depressive states alternate with periods of mania, characterized by high energy, reduced need for sleep, increased talkativeness, risky behavior, and in some cases, elevated self-esteem or grandiosity. The shift between depression and mania can significantly impair an individual's ability to function in daily life, affecting concentration, sleep patterns, and overall cognitive performance. Mania is the distinguishing feature of bipolar disorder that differentiates it from unipolar depression, where no manic episodes are present. Accurate diagnosis and treatment, often involving mood stabilizers or antipsychotic medications, are essential for managing this condition.