Bipolar I disorder is defined by the DSM as having one or more manic episode or mixed episodes. A manic episode is a period of one week with abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irratible mood. and may also have the following symptoms (at least 3 or more) are persistent: A mixed episode is a period of one week or more where a person has symptoms of both a major depressive episode and a manic episode nearly every day. To meet clinical standards these symptoms also must cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.