All About Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Symptoms of bipolar disorder can be severe and may interfere with a person’s ability to function at work or school, or in relationships.
There are two main types of bipolar disorder: Bipolar I and Bipolar II.
Bipolar I
Bipolar disorder type I is characterized by manic episodes that last at least seven days, or by manic symptoms that are so severe that the person needs immediate hospital care. Manic symptoms may include increased energy, impulsivity, irritability, and decreased need for sleep.
Bipolar II
Bipolar disorder type II is characterized by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, but the manic episodes that are characteristic of Bipolar I disorder are not present. Hypomanic episodes are similar to manic episodes, but they are less severe and do not cause as much impairment in functioning.
All About Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Symptoms of bipolar disorder can be severe and may interfere with a person’s ability to function at work or school, or in relationships.
There are two main types of bipolar disorder: Bipolar I and Bipolar II.
Bipolar I
Bipolar disorder type I is characterized by manic episodes that last at least seven days, or by manic symptoms that are so severe that the person needs immediate hospital care. Manic symptoms may include increased energy, impulsivity, irritability, and decreased need for sleep.
Bipolar II
Bipolar disorder type II is characterized by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, but the manic episodes that are characteristic of Bipolar I disorder are not present. Hypomanic episodes are similar to manic episodes, but they are less severe and do not cause as much impairment in functioning.