Bipolar disorder causes sudden shifts in mood and can make it difficult to concentrate and carry out everyday activities. It is typically diagnosed in the teen years, but it’s also common during pregnancy or postpartum. Here’s some information about the different types of bipolar disorder and their symptoms.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar I Disorder

People who suffer from bipolar I disorder will experience manic episodes that last for at least seven days and depressive episodes for two weeks or more. Manic episodes can be so intense that they require medical attention. In this type, both manic and depressive episodes can occur at the same time.

Bipolar II Disorder

People with bipolar II disorder experience hypomania, which is less severe than mania. Although it involves less intense manic periods, bipolar II disorder involves longer depressive episodes.

Cyclothymia

Hypomanic and depressive symptoms may last for at least two years in adults and one year in children and adolescents. They do not meet the same requirements as bipolar I and II disorders, but they will still experience symptoms. Episodes are less intense but last longer.

Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Manic Episodes

Mania and hypomania differ depending on the person and situation, but they typically include three or more of the following symptoms:

• Feeling of being “high”
• Decreased need for sleep
• Loss of appetite
• Poor judgment and risky behavior
• Irritability or jumpiness
• Racing thoughts
• Inflated ego and overconfidence

Depressive Episodes

While manic episodes often involve constant action and erratic behavior, depressive episodes can make it difficult to perform daily tasks. An episode may include five or more of the following symptoms:

• Feeling hopeless or empty
• Suicidal thoughts
• Little energy or interest in activities
• Decreased sex drive
• Increased appetite and weight gain
• Inability to feel pleasure
• Unprompted guilt or worthlessness
• Sleeping too much or difficulty sleeping

When to See a Doctor

If someone experiences symptoms of manic or depressive episodes, they should contact a trusted healthcare professional for an evaluation and treatment. Bipolar disorder can strain personal relationships and affect work or school life.

Sometimes it can be difficult to recognize the negative consequences of bipolar disorder. Or sometimes, people can enjoy the uplifting or productive effects of hypomania, but poor decisions or intense depressive episodes always follow.

Worried you or someone you love might have bipolar disorder? Lincoln Psychiatric Group in Lincoln, NE, has over 75 years of experience offering top-quality medical care to those who have a mental illness. They offer psychological support for individuals, couples, and families and can provide a mental health diagnosis, medication management, therapy, and counseling services. Visit their website for more information or call (402) 476-7557.