[header] How to explain bipolar disorder to others [title] Introduce bipolar disorder by explaining intense moods. [step] Bipolar disorder is characterized by intense mood swings. If someone has never heard of bipolar disorder, they may be confused as to how it affects someone. 
To start off explaining the basics, begin by letting them know bipolar patients experience intense moods. [substeps] Say something like, " bipolar disorder results in intense shifts in moods.