Question: What is Bipolar 2 Disorder?
Answer: According to the definition in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), bipolar II disorder (also known as bipolar 2 disorder or bipolar type 2) is "characterized by one or more major depressive episodes accompanied by at least one hypomanic episode." The key difference between bipolar 1 and bipolar 2 is that bipolar 2 has hypomanic but not manic episodes, meaning the symptoms of mania are generally less severe in type 2.
Also, while those with bipolar I disorder may experience additional psychotic symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations, bipolar II by definition cannot have psychotic features.
The signs which would lead to a diagnosis of bipolar 2 disorder are:
- One or more major depressive episodes
- At least one hypomanic episode
- There has never been a manic or mixed episode
- Another disorder is not responsible for symptoms
- Symptoms cause distress or impair functioning
Symptoms and characteristics of depression include:
- Decreased energy
- Weight loss or gain
- Despair
- Irritability
- Uncontrollable crying
Symptoms and characteristics of hypomania include:
- Grandiosity
- Decreased need for sleep
- Pressured speech
- Racing thoughts
- Distractibility
- Tendency to engage in behavior that could have serious consequences, such as spending recklessly or inappropriate sexual encounters
- Excess energy
It should be noted that the symptoms of hypomania are the same as for mania, but they are less severe. Therefore, the official diagnostic criteria separating a diagnosis of bipolar II from that of bipolar I disorder is that hypomania does not cause marked impairment of functioning or require hospitalization.
by Kimberly Read
