Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

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Prepare for the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor exam. Study effectively with flashcards, multiple-choice questions, and detailed explanations. Ensure success on your assessment!

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What characterizes bipolar disorder?

Stable mood with occasional sadness
Extreme mood swings from depression to emotional highs
Consistent level of high energy
Defined by a single mood state

The correct answer is: Extreme mood swings from depression to emotional highs

Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings that fluctuate between depressive lows and manic or hypomanic highs. During depressive episodes, individuals may experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of energy or motivation. In contrast, during manic episodes, they may exhibit elevated mood, increased energy, and heightened activity levels, often accompanied by impulsive behavior and racing thoughts. This pattern of experiencing significant and distinct changes in mood is what fundamentally defines bipolar disorder, distinguishing it from other mood disorders that may present with more stable or consistent emotional states. This cyclical nature of mood changes is crucial for diagnosing and understanding the condition.