<p>Bipolar disorder with mania and depressive episodes is one of the chronic mental illnesses that affect the emotions, thoughts and behaviors of individuals. The aim of this study was to evaluate the experiences regarding exacerbation periods and help-seeking behaviors in bipolar disorder. This study, in which the phenomenological design, one of the qualitative research methods, was used, was conducted with individuals who were followed up with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Within the scope of the study, in-depth individual interviews were conducted with 18 individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Criterion sampling method, one of the purposeful sampling methods, was used to reach the sample group. Interviews continued until data saturation was achieved. All interviews were recorded with a voice recorder and then transcribed. The research data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s phenomenological method. The COREQ checklist was followed throughout the study and reported accordingly. Within the scope of the study, 3 main themes (emergence of the disease, exacerbation period, help-seeking behavior) and 9 sub-themes (Childhood experiences, traumatic experiences, manic period, depressive period, professional help, social support, spiritual approach, individual coping, dysfunctional ways) were obtained. As a result of the study, it was found that individuals had good subjective perceptions of exacerbation periods, but help-seeking behaviors varied according to many psychosocial parameters such as functionality, social support systems, stigma and denial of the disease.</p>