What is Bipolar 2 disorder?
Bipolar 2 disorder is a type of mood disorder that causes alternating periods of depression and hypomania. It's similar to Bipolar 1, but with some key differences in symptom intensity.
Key Features:
Bipolar 2 involves
* Hypomanic episodes - periods of elevated mood and increased energy that Show Full Answer
What is Bipolar 2 disorder?
Bipolar 2 disorder is a type of mood disorder that causes alternating periods of depression and hypomania. It's similar to Bipolar 1, but with some key differences in symptom intensity.
Key Features:
Bipolar 2 involves:
* Hypomanic episodes - periods of elevated mood and increased energy that are less intense than full mania
* Depressive episodes - periods lasting two weeks or more with feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low energy
* No full manic episodes (this is what distinguishes it from Bipolar 1)
About Hypomania:
During hypomanic episodes, you might feel more energetic than usual but not intensely enough to require hospitalization. Examples include spending sprees, impulsive investments, or becoming obsessed with new projects. Unlike mania, hypomania doesn't typically involve delusions or hallucinations.
Depression in Bipolar 2:
Research shows that depressive episodes in Bipolar 2 can actually last longer and be more severe than in Bipolar 1. Many people don't recognize their hypomanic episodes as problematic, which can make diagnosis challenging.
When It Starts:
Bipolar 2 typically develops around age 30, slightly later than Bipolar 1 which usually begins around age 24.
Treatment involves mood stabilizers, antidepressants (taken with mood stabilizers), and psychotherapy to help manage both the highs and lows.
January 12
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