Bipolar Disorder
Understanding Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).
Bipolar I Disorder
Characterized by manic episodes that last at least 7 days or severe manic symptoms requiring immediate hospital care. Depressive episodes typically occur as well.
Bipolar II Disorder
Defined by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, but not the full-blown manic episodes that are typical of Bipolar I Disorder.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Involves periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms lasting for at least 2 years, but the symptoms do not meet the diagnostic requirements for a hypomanic or depressive episode.
