What Are the Types of Bipolar Disorder

Most people go through emotional ups and downs from time to time, but Bipolar Affective Disorder is different. People with this mental health condition experience intense fluctuations in their mood, which affects their energy levels, and ability to carry out everyday tasks. Bipolar disorder is a broad term and encompasses a range of symptoms. In this article, we take you through how many types of bipolar disorder are there.

Also read: How to Know if Someone Has Bipolar Disorder?

What does Bipolar Disorder look like?

Bipolar disorders are episodic, so their symptoms are not always present; yet, there may be some lingering symptoms between episodes. The different episodes can be classified into manic, hypomanic, depressive, and mixed episodes. Besides the various episodes of bipolar mood disorder, there are different types of bipolar disorder as well.

Manic episodes last for at least one week, during which an individual is extremely high-spirited or irritable throughout the day for most days, has more energy than usual, and experiences other symptoms such as a decreased need for sleep, increased distractibility, rapid speech, and more.

A hypomanic episode is of a shorter duration, lasting about four days, and is characterised by less severe manic symptoms. Unlike manic symptoms, hypomanic symptoms do not severely impact one's daily functioning.

Finally, during mixed episodes, symptoms of mania and depression occur at the same time or in rapid succession, without a recovery period in between.

How Many Types of Bipolar Disorder Are There.

Bipolar disorder can affect individuals in various ways, and lead to several behavioural changes. Symptoms of bipolar disorder are not always easy to spot and are often considered separate issues that require assistance.

Mainly, there are four types of bipolar disorders.  

Bipolar I Disorder

Characterised by manic symptoms that last for up to seven days, These symptoms may be preceded or followed by hypomanic or major depressive episodes. In some cases, manic episodes may include psychotic symptoms. 

Bipolar II Disorder

Often misunderstood as a 'less severe' version of Bipolar I disorder, this type is characterised by depressive episodes which are followed by hypomanic episodes which do not meet the criteria of a full-blown manic episode. In Bipolar II disorder, depressive episodes are more common than hypomanic episodes.

Cyclothymic Disorder or Cyclothymia

Cyclothymia is a chronic form of bipolar mood disorder, with symptoms lasting for at least two years. This bipolar disorder type is characterised by both depressive and hypomanic episodes. Yet none of these episodes ever reach the criteria for a manic or major depressive episode. 

Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified

This type of bipolar disorder includes those symptoms which do not meet the criteria for Bipolar I or II. Symptoms may be out of an individual's normal range of behaviour, but they either do not last long enough or may be too few to meet other diagnostic criteria.

Also read: What Is Rapid Cycling Bipolar?

Besides these four main types of bipolar disorder, individuals may also be diagnosed with rapid-cycling bipolar disorder. This type is characterised by rapid shifts in mood, where an individual experiences at least four episodes of manic, hypomanic, depressive or mixed episodes within one year. Usually, these symptoms manifest in those individuals who develop bipolar disorder at a young age or deal with severe symptoms. 

Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition which can manifest in several ways. Understanding the various types can help you know when to seek professional help. While all bipolar disorders benefit from psychotherapy and medication, the treatment approach may vary depending on its type. 

Also read: Can I Get Bipolar Disorder Later in Life?

The longer this condition goes untreated, the more severe the symptoms can get. Delaying treatment can severely impact various aspects of one's daily life. With the right treatment, however, it is possible to manage the symptoms of this disorder and lead fulfilling life.

Sources: 

1. National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Bipolar Disorderhttps://education.ucsb.edu/sites/default/files/hosford_clinic/docs/Bipolar.pdf

2. Bipolar Disorder - UNC Center for Excellence in Community Mental Health. (n.d.). UNC Center for Excellence in Community Mental Health. https://www.med.unc.edu/psych/cecmh/archived-old-pages/ii-what-are-mood-disorders/bipolar-disorder/

3. LibGuides: PSY 142 - Abnormal Psychology - Textbook: Bipolar Disorder. (2022, December 10). Bipolar Disorder - PSY 142 - Abnormal Psychology - Textbook - LibGuides at Hostos Community College Library. https://guides.hostos.cuny.edu/psy142/7-4

4. Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depressive Illness or Manic Depression) - Harvard Health. (2019, March 13). Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/bipolar-disorder-manic-depressive-illness-or-manic-depression-a-to-z