What are the Types of Bipolar Disorder?

A major characteristic feature of bipolar disorder is the presence of recurrent maniac episodes or hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes. At times, people might refer to bipolar disorder as ‘manic depression’ and ‘manic-depressive disorder’. While different individuals may observe mood changes, those suffering from bipolar disorder experience extreme shifts in mood.

In this blog, we have focused on an explanation of what are the types of bipolar disorder and understanding the common types of bipolar disorder. Through this write-up, an effort is made to better understand the possible types of bipolar disorder. It should be noted that we are not encouraging self-diagnosis in any way. The purpose of this blog is only to increase awareness and it is not an alternative to qualified psychiatrists and psychologists’ assistance.

If you or anyone you know is experiencing signs of mental distress, then it is pivotal to seek help from mental healthcare providers for proper assessment, diagnosis, and treatment plan.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

As one seeks assistance from qualified bipolar disorder psychiatrists and psychologists, they can help with the proper diagnosis of the type of bipolar disorder. A brief overview of the basic types of bipolar disorder is mentioned below:

Bipolar I Disorder

Bipolar I Disorder is majorly characterised based upon the presence of a manic episode that an individual experiences for at least 7 days and almost every day for most duration of the day. Along with a manic episode, there can also be the presence of a depressive episode. The duration of depressive episodes can usually be about 2 weeks. The depressive episode may not be experienced by everyone; however, the psychiatrist and clinical psychologist can help in proper assessment for an individual’s specific concerns.

Bipolar II Disorder

The experience of hypomanic and depressive episodes can be a specific characteristic feature of Bipolar II Disorder. The symptoms are often less severe in comparison to Bipolar I Disorder.

Cyclothymic Disorder

An individual might experience recurring depressive and hypomanic symptoms; however, these are not as intense to fulfil the criteria of Bipolar I or Bipolar II Disorder. The individual might have been experiencing these recurring symptoms for two years or even more than that. This is also known as cyclothymia, and here the criteria for hypomanic episodes, manic episodes, and depressive episodes are not completely met.

Other Specified Bipolar Disorder

Other specified bipolar disorder often refers to the bipolar spectrum phenomenon that does not meet the criteria for cyclothymic disorder, Bipolar I Disorder, or Bipolar II Disorder.

Other Unspecified Bipolar Disorder

If an individual is experiencing symptoms of bipolar spectrum and the facets of life are significantly impacted, such as social functioning, occupational functioning, and other areas of life, then the qualified mental health professional may characterise the concerns as unspecified bipolar disorder.

Trained mental health professionals do the assessment and diagnosis of the specific type of bipolar disorder through a thorough evaluation.

Common Symptoms Observed in Types of Bipolar Disorder

During bipolar episodes, an individual may experience the impact of symptoms on the cognitive processes, emotions, and behavioural processes. The symptoms experienced may vary based on manic episodes, hypomanic episodes, and depressive episodes. To properly understand the type of bipolar disorder, the duration and intensity of these symptoms would also be crucial. A brief overview of the symptoms of manic episodes and depressive episodes is mentioned below:

Manic Episodes Probable Symptoms

• Extremely irritable
• Increased activity level
• Racing thoughts
• Minimised need for sleep
• Increased appetite for food, drinking, and other activities that the individual finds pleasurable
• Speaking quickly about a lot of diverse things
• Feeling energised to be able to do many things all at once
• One may start considering themselves unusually important, powerful, or extraordinarily talented

Depressive Episodes Probable Symptoms

• Feeling very low
• Difficulty concentrating
• Difficulty making decisions
• Increased need for sleep
• Unable to engage in activities of daily living
• Feeling of disinterest in diverse life activities
• Feeling of hopelessness and worthlessness
• Suicidal ideation and self-harm behaviour

It is crucial to be mindful that the above-mentioned symptoms are to give a brief overview. The subjective experience of these symptoms may vary, and therefore seeking support from qualified psychiatrists for bipolar disorder and psychologists for bipolar disorder becomes pivotal.

Diagnostic Process for Identifying Possible Type of Bipolar Disorder

The diagnostic process for specifying the possible type of bipolar disorder along with understanding the presence of any comorbid mental health issue may incorporate the following steps:

• Physical examination
• Psychological evaluation
• Psychiatric history

As a part of these processes, a detailed understanding of the client’s concerns is achieved through psychological assessments, observation, and self-reporting. The activities of daily living are also understood to better identify the severity of concerns and develop a treatment plan accordingly.

Treatment Process for Bipolar Disorder

Medications, psychotherapy, and group therapy sessions are a few commonly used ways as part of the treatment process for different types of bipolar disorder. The goal is to help the individual achieve their optimal health and regulate emotions successfully. The personalised treatment plan for each individual may be developed based on their symptoms, severity of concerns, and presence of any comorbid mental health disorder. At times, family counselling sessions may also be conducted to improve communication within the family and work on family dynamics.

There is a plethora of psychotherapeutic techniques that may be used such as cognitive behaviour therapy, expressive arts therapy, and dialectical behavioural therapy. One can collaboratively work with the psychologist to develop short-term and long-term goals and achieve their healthier optimal mental health.

Reach Out for Professional Help at Athena Behavioral Health

If you or your loved one are experiencing any signs of mental distress, then reach out to Athena Behavioral Health for timely treatment intervention and personalised treatment plans. We have specialised experts who can help with the types of bipolar disorder. An early diagnosis can prevent the concerns from worsening and promote effective management.

Begin your journey towards a healthier mental wellness with Athena Behavioral Health today with a single step – Reaching Out! You are not alone and our team will walk every step with you on this recovery journey – from diagnosis to treatment planning, charting the progress, and celebrating milestones, we are here for you.

You can contact our team via call at +91 9289086193 or email us your queries at customercare@athenabhs.com and we would together walk on the wellness journey!