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Bipolar II Personality Disorder

The types of bipolar disorder include bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymia. According to the National Institutes of Health, bipolar II disorder affects approximately 5 percent of people.

  1. Features

    • People with bipolar II have mood swings going from extreme highs (mania) to extreme lows (depression). Bipolar II is characterized by episodes of hypomania, highs that typically last a few days.

    Treatment

    • Doctors may prescribe mood stabilizers, antidepressants or anti-psychotic medications to regulate symptoms of bipolar disorder. Therapy may also be suggested, as well as hospitalization, especially if the patient is suicidal.

    Causes

    • There is no single known cause of bipolar disorder, but many doctors believe that a combination of genetic, environmental and biochemical factors cause the disorder.

    Tests

    • If a doctor suspects bipolar disorder, he may perform a physical exam, do blood tests and take a psychological evaluation.

    Considerations

    • If you have bipolar II disorder, consider joining a support group to learn about coping methods, ways to relax and stress reduction techniques.

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