A disease process in which the patient's mood changes from elated to depressed is called?

Bipolar disorder is characterized by significant mood fluctuations that include episodes of mania or elation followed by episodes of depression. This cycle distinguishes bipolar disorder from other mood-related conditions. During the manic phases, individuals may feel overly happy, energetic, and invulnerable, while during the depressive phases, they may feel sad, hopeless, and lethargic.

Understanding the mood shifts is crucial in identifying bipolar disorder as it directly relates to the core symptoms that define the condition. Other mood disorders, like major depression or anxiety disorders, do not typically present with the same cyclical mood changes. Instead, they may manifest as prolonged periods of one mood state, such as persistent sadness or anxiety without the distinct alternating patterns seen in bipolar disorder. This cyclical nature is a key feature that is essential for making an accurate diagnosis.