Different Modes of Bipolar Disorder

Know the characteristics of bipolar I disorder. This form of bipolar disorder is the most commonly known manic-depressive form of the illness. A person classified as bipolar I must experience at least one manic episode or mixed episode. People with bipolar I disorder may also experience a depressive episode. People with bipolar I are the most likely to experience highs that lead to risky behavior.

• This form of the illness is often disruptive to one's work life and relationships.


• Those affected by Bipolar I are more likely to attempt suicide, with a completed suicide rate of 10-15%


• People suffering from bipolar I are also at a high risk of having or developing a substance abuse problem.


• There is also a connection between bipolar I and hyperthyroidism. This makes it even more important to see a doctor.

Understand the symptoms of bipolar II disorder. This variation involves less intense manic episodes and full-blown depressive episodes. The person may sometimes experience a muted version of hypomania. But, the underlying state is usually depression.

• People with bipolar II disorder are often misdiagnosed as having depression. To tell the difference, one must look for the distinguishing characteristics of bipolar depression.


• Bipolar depression is different from MDD because it is often paired with manic symptoms. Sometimes there is overlap between the two. It takes a qualified professional to distinguish between these conditions.


• For people with bipolar II, mania may manifest as anxiety, irritability, or racing thoughts. Bursts of creativity and activity are less common.


• Like bipolar I, there is a high risk for suicide, hyperthyroidism, and substance abuse in bipolar II.


• Bipolar II tends to be more common in women than men.

Look for the signs of cyclothymia. This is a milder form of bipolar disorder that involves mood swings with less severe instances of mania and depression. The mood swings tend to operate on a cycle, going back and forth between depression and mania. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)

• Cyclothymia begins early in life and it’s onset is usually in adolescence and early adulthood.


• Cyclothymia is equally common in men and women.


• As with bipolar I and II, there is an increased risk of substance abuse for those affected by cyclothymia.


• Sleep disorders are also commonly found alongside cyclothymia.