Bipolar Disorder, formerly known as manic depression, is a mental health disorder which increases emotions and causes dramatic mood swings which range from depression (low) to mania or hypomania (high). Mood shifts or swings can occur rarely or frequently depending on the individual. Like many anxiety disorders, no one knows the exact cause. However, many believe genetics and environment play the biggest role in the development of a bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is lifelong, but mood swings can be controlled with treatment plans.