Too often we misjudge the power of balancing our mindsets and emotions. If we do not have control over reactions including our mouth and counter wildly, we will not have control over our future, and we will let others control us.

Well, it is normal to have days when we feel sad and hopeless or when we are over the moon. But then, as long as our temperament does not affect our own life and especially the surroundings to an extreme degree, they are usually considered to be okay.

On the other hand, in some cases, rapid changes in behaviour can be related to mental health, hormones, substance use, or other health conditions. When mood shifts to mania or hypomania, one may feel euphoric, full of energy or unusually irritable. These mood swings can affect sleep, energy, judgment and the ability to think and behave clearly. The mental term for mood swings are often referred to as mood disorders.

If you have bipolar disorder, your emotions range from extremely happy to extremely sad. This disorder is also called manic depression or bipolar affective disorder. The term "bipolar" means "two poles," signifying the polar opposites of mania and depression. These extreme mood swings can be symptoms of other mental illnesses.

Although bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, one can manage his/her mood swings and other symptoms by following a modern treatment plan.

In most cases, bipolar disorder is treated with medications and psychological counselling. Episodes of mood swings may occur rarely or multiple times a year. While most people will experience some emotional symptoms between episodes, some may not experience any. Bipolar is an illness, not a hopeless destination.

E-mail: rubaiulmurshed@shomman.org