Is rapid cycling bipolar disorder serious?

Rapid cycling bipolar disorder can seriously and dangerously affect the lives of people experiencing episodes. The body is affected through different sleeping and eating habits, which can be detrimental to the one's health. Depression can lead to thoughts of self-harm and suicide. Mania can encourage risky decisions that can be disastrous if not prevented. To prevent these negative effects, people experiencing rapid cycling bipolar disorder, especially during an episode of major depression, may require hospitalization.