Trait

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A trait is a stable, enduring part of a person’s personality and character that remains consistent regardless of current mood. Traits are the “real” version of a person when healthy and stable. In bipolar disorder (BD), for example, it’s the typical personality that persists even when the person isn’t experiencing a mood episode. This could be someone with a lifelong trait of being highly creative or naturally introverted. These qualities don’t vanish when they’re depressed, nor are the caused by mania. Also see Trait Vulnerability