Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depression, is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). Although bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, you can manage your mood swings and other symptoms by following a treatment plan. In most cases, bipolar disorder is treated with medications and psychological counseling (psychotherapy). Bipolar I Disorder and Bipolar II Disorder are two of the three major forms of Bipolar Disorder. If you or someone you know is dealing with bipolar disorder, educating yourself about the condition is important. Understanding the differences between Bipolar Disorder 1 and Bipolar Disorder 2 can help you plan for how to manage future mood episodes and get the best treatment for your mental health.
Bipolar 1 Disorder
Bipolar 1 Disorder is characterized by extreme, intense mood episodes. Those with bipolar I experience intense mania, which lasts at least seven days. These mania episodes are followed or preceded by a period of depression, which lasts at least two weeks. During a manic mood episode or depressive mood episode, someone with Bipolar 1 Disorder will experience a period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and increased activity or energy. Involvement in risky and potentially harmful behavior, such as spending too much money or having risky sex. Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day. A lack of desire to participate in events or hobbies they used to enjoy. Thoughts of suicide and change in weight. Bipolar I Disorder often coexists with other disorders including PTSD, substance use disorders, and a variety of mood disorders.
Bipolar 2 Disorder
Bipolar 2 Disorder is a mood disorder characterized by at least one episode of hypomania and at least one episode of major depression. Diagnosis for Bipolar 2 Disorder requires that the individual must never experience a full manic episode. One manic episode meets the criteria for Bipolar 1 Disorder. Hypomania is a sustained state of elevated or irritable mood that is less severe than mania yet may still significantly affect the quality of life and result in permanent consequences including reckless spending, damaged relationships, and poor judgment.
What is bipolar I or II disorder with mixed features?
You will experience symptoms of mania or hypomania and depression at the same time. You may hear this being called ‘mixed bipolar state’. You may feel very sad and hopeless at the same time as feeling restlessness and being overactive.
Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder 1 and Bipolar Disorder 2
Just like most other mental health conditions, bipolar disorder is a clinical diagnosis. This means a healthcare provider can diagnose bipolar disorder just by talking to you and observing your symptoms. They may also want to talk to your friends and family (with your permission). When talking with you, your provider will want to learn more about your current and past symptoms. They may also want to hear more about your family members, as bipolar disorder can run in families If your doctor suspects bipolar disorder, they’ll also look for clues about whether or not you’ve had a manic episode in the past. This will help them to decide if they have Bipolar Disorder 1 or Bipolar Disorder 2. Keeping track of your mood, energy level, attention span, and behaviors every day can help you receive the most accurate diagnosis
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