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Types of Bipolarity

Bipolar disorder is characterized by extremely elevated moods (mania) alternating with extremely depressed moods (depression). In most cases, there are periods of mood stability between manic or depressive episodes. Not all cases of bipolar disorder are the same. Below are the different types of bipolarity.

  1. Bipolar Disorder I

    • Bipolar Disorder I is characterized by at least one manic episode, with or without a depressive episode.

    Bipolar Disorder II

    • Depression is the main feature of Bipolar Disorder II, alternating with brief periods of hypomania. Hypomania is less intense and shorter than the mania experienced in Bipolar Disorder I.

    Cyclothymia

    • Cyclothymia is a milder form of bipolarity. Although mood swings are present, manic and depressive episodes are shorter-lived and less severe than in other types of bipolar disorder.

    Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder

    • Rapid cycling bipolar disorder occurs when someone has four or more depressive or manic episodes in one year, sometimes switching within the same day.

    Mixed Cycle Bipolar

    • In mixed cycle bipolar disorder, symptoms of mania and depression occur simultaneously.

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