To diagnose bipolar disorder, psychiatrists use the definitions and criteria
established by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
(DSM), which is published by the American Psychiatric Association. In my
experience, though, human beings don't always fall into categories! The
following types are just general descriptions that can be useful in guiding
treatment.
Bipolar Type I -- This type is characterized by cycles of mania and depression.
At least one episode of mania has occurred.
Bipolar Type II -- Type II is characterized by cycles of hypomania and
depression.
*As you can see, the primary difference between the first two types is the
extent of the "up" phase of the cycle -- is it extreme enough to seriously
disrupt the person's life or cause psychosis? However, there is evidence for
other differences. Type I individuals tend to respond better to lithium, whereas
Type II generally responds more to other mood stabilizers such as Depakote
or Topamax.
Cyclothymia -- In this type, the ups and downs are not as extensive. You may
experience cycles of slightly lowered and slightly raised moods. With time,
cyclothymia may become severe enough for a diagnosis of bipolar I or II.
Bipolar NOS (Not Otherwise Specified) -- This is a "catch-all" category that is
used when a psychiatrist sees clear indications of mood cycles but they do
not fit any of the above categories.
Return to Home Page Treatment Options
established by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
(DSM), which is published by the American Psychiatric Association. In my
experience, though, human beings don't always fall into categories! The
following types are just general descriptions that can be useful in guiding
treatment.
Bipolar Type I -- This type is characterized by cycles of mania and depression.
At least one episode of mania has occurred.
Bipolar Type II -- Type II is characterized by cycles of hypomania and
depression.
*As you can see, the primary difference between the first two types is the
extent of the "up" phase of the cycle -- is it extreme enough to seriously
disrupt the person's life or cause psychosis? However, there is evidence for
other differences. Type I individuals tend to respond better to lithium, whereas
Type II generally responds more to other mood stabilizers such as Depakote
or Topamax.
Cyclothymia -- In this type, the ups and downs are not as extensive. You may
experience cycles of slightly lowered and slightly raised moods. With time,
cyclothymia may become severe enough for a diagnosis of bipolar I or II.
Bipolar NOS (Not Otherwise Specified) -- This is a "catch-all" category that is
used when a psychiatrist sees clear indications of mood cycles but they do
not fit any of the above categories.
Return to Home Page Treatment Options
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| My writing: Lunar Moth Bipolar Blog Associated Content Page |
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| Types of Bipolar Disorder |
Disclaimer: The information on this site was obtained
from health care professionals and personal
experience. I am not a doctor, nurse, licensed
counselor, or any other type of health professional. The
information on this site is not to be construed as an
attempt to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical
condition.
from health care professionals and personal
experience. I am not a doctor, nurse, licensed
counselor, or any other type of health professional. The
information on this site is not to be construed as an
attempt to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical
condition.
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