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Bipolar 1 Vs. Bipolar 2

If you know someone with bipolar disorder, you may have heard the terms bipolar I and bipolar II. What do these terms mean? Is there really a difference between the two?

  1. General Definition of Bipolar Disorder

    • Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by fluctuating mood swings, varying between mania and depression.

    Mania

    • People with bipolar I suffer from severe manic episodes. These episodes can include elevated mood, racing thoughts, dangerous impulsive behavior and inappropriate aggression.

    Hypomania

    • In bipolar II, patients experience hypomania. Symptoms are similar to mania but are not as extreme, and don't have a negative impact on your life like mania does.

    Depression in Bipolar I

    • Depression in bipolar I can be debilitating. You may feel so sad or worthless that you can't even get out of bed or tend to your responsibilities. It can even lead to suicide if left untreated.

    Depression in Bipolar II

    • In bipolar II, depression is painful but not crippling. You can still function, though you feel miserable. You may feel like you're just going through the motions and not enjoying life.

    Treatment

    • Bipolar I and II can be treated with therapy and medication. Lithium, Depakote and Abilify are common medications used to treat bipolar disorder, and used in conjunction with therapy, they can be quite effective.

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