How to Distinguish Bipolar II From Postnatal Depression

Bipolar II and postnatal depression are two forms of mental disorders. The most prevalent distinguishing factor between bipolar II and postnatal depression is that postnatal depression presents itself after the delivery of a baby and therefore is present in mothers who have delivered a baby. The "mania" in bipolar II is less severe than in bipolar I disorder.

Instructions

• 1

  Assess the person's symptoms. Bipolar II is a mental disorder that has effects on how mood and emotions are controlled. The manic mode of bipolar II shows by the person having more energy than normal. These episodes are called hypomania and hypomanic.

  Other symptoms to look for in hypomania are the person bouncing from one idea to the next, loud rapid speech and increased energy with a decreased need to sleep. Hypomania episodes can last for a few days to several years.

  A hypomania episode is usually followed by depression. In a depression, bipolar II sufferers lose pleasure in everyday activities, have low energy levels, feelings of guilt and worthlessness and when very severe, thoughts of suicide. These episodes can last for weeks or months.

• 2

  Assess the new mother's symptoms. Postnatal depression affects 10 to 15 percent of new mothers. Postnatal depression, or PND, is a bit more than the baby blues, which many new mothers can suffer from after giving birth. PND usually develops about a month after giving birth. How PND develops is not clearly defined but may arise from hormonal changes. Lack of sleep and the new responsibility of taking care of a baby may also add to the development of this illness.

  Symptoms of PND include feeling low for no reason, not enjoying oneself, irritability (usually with baby or partner), interrupted sleep, anxiety (feeling on the edge most of the time), feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness. When PND is severe, suicidal thoughts can come into play.

• 3

  Know the risk factors. Anyone can develop bipolar II disorder. Bipolar II disorder can make itself present in the late teen years or early 20s. Almost 6 million people suffer from a form of bipolar disorder. A person has a higher risk of developing bipolar II if an immediate family member has the disorder.

  In postnatal depression, risk factors are a little different. PND is more common in mothers who may have already had episodes of depression. A family history of depression may also contribute to the development PND in new mothers. Mothers who had a stressful pregnancy or a major event during the course of pregnancy are also more susceptible to PND.