Types of bipolar
This page explains what types of bipolar disorder there are. Detailing the various symptoms and patterns.
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There are three primary types of bipolar disorder, each with distinct patterns of symptoms:
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Bipolar I Disorder
This type is characterised by manic episodes lasting at least 7 days or by manic symptoms that are so severe immediate hospital care is needed. Depressive episodes occur as well, typically lasting at least 2 weeks. It’s possible for someone with Bipolar I disorder to have mixed episodes that feature both manic and depressive characteristics simultaneously.
Bipolar II Disorder
Individuals with this type experience a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes (which are less severe than full manic episodes and do not include psychotic features), but they do not experience the full-blown manic episodes that are typical of Bipolar I Disorder.
Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia)
This is a milder form of bipolar disorder involving periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms lasting for at least 2 years (1 year in children and adolescents); however, the symptoms do not meet the diagnostic requirements for a hypomanic episode and a depressive episode.
Specified & Unspecified bipolar disorders
Besides these, there are other specified and unspecified bipolar and related disorders, which include conditions that do not match the exact criteria for the above types but still represent significant problems with mood regulation.
These categories allow for a diagnosis that acknowledges the presence of bipolar-related symptoms and their impact on an individual’s life, even if the full diagnostic criteria for one of the three primary types are not met.
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