One key to recognizing mania is a patient's distractibility. "They will distract you, interrupt you," Dr. Nard said. "They won't let you get a word in,.

The correct diagnosis and treatment are important to reach as early as possible because the condition has such negative consequences, Dr. Nard said. Up to 50% of those with bipolar disorder attempt suicide, according to a recent analysis. And the World Health Organization ranked bipolar disorder as the fifth leading cause of years lost to disability worldwide.

Sufferers also experience difficulties at work and with family, and 35% are substance abusers, he added.

When treating acute mania in a bipolar disorder, the goal should be to stabilize the patient's mood within a matter of days, said Mark H. Townsend, M.D., of the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center here. Dr. Townsend was the second symposium speaker.

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