Page "Bipolar disorder" Paragraph 52

A naturalistic study from first admission for mania or mixed episode ( representing the hospitalized and therefore most severe cases ) found that 50 % achieved syndromal recovery ( no longer meeting criteria for the diagnosis ) within six weeks and 98 % within two years.

Within two years, 72 % achieved symptomatic recovery ( no symptoms at all ) and 43 % achieved functional recovery ( regaining of prior occupational and residential status ).

However, 40 % went on to experience a new episode of mania or depression within 2 years of syndromal recovery, and 19 % switched phases without recovery.