GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION This is a basic course on Bipolar Disorder, which is also known as Bipolar Affective Disorder and Manic Depression. The course details descriptions of the disorder's definition and symptoms and identifies what is known about its etiology. Different treatment options are described and the risks and benefits of the various treatment options are reviewed. Alternative views of mental illness in general and of mania in particular are also proffered. A critique of this diagnosis and treatments currently in use is presented. This course consists of a series of short articles about the diagnosis of and treatment for Bipolar. The first set of articles reviews the history, diagnosis and etiology of Bipolar. The second set summarizes the pharmaceutical interventions that are available, including the adverse side effects of the medications. The third set presents non-pharmaceutical treatment options for Bipolar. The fourth set of articles reviews dissenting and highly controversial critical opinions about the actual diagnosis and the treatment of Bipolar. The final set includes a glossary of terms and a summary of updates and resources for clients and therapists.