Which condition is characterized by extreme shifts in mood, including elation and depression?

Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme shifts in mood, which can include periods of elation, known as mania or hypomania, as well as episodes of depression. These mood swings are a hallmark of the condition, distinguishing it from other mental health disorders. During manic phases, individuals may experience heightened energy, increased activity, and excessively euphoric feelings, while depressive episodes can lead to feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, and disinterest in usual activities.

Understanding bipolar disorder involves recognizing that these mood cycles can vary significantly from one individual to another and may range from subtle changes in mood to dramatic shifts that can impact daily functioning. Other conditions, such as anxiety disorders, major depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder, do not involve this same pattern of cyclical mood disturbance, making bipolar disorder the clear choice for this description.