Contrary to popular belief, there is more than one key in of bipolar disorder.
How these mood episodes present determines which jot down of bipolar disorder a person will be diagnosed with.
Understanding which bang out of bipolar disorder you have is important for determining your treatment options.
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How these episodes present determines which throw in of bipolar disorder a person has.
Bipolar I and II are the most common types.
Bipolar I is characterized by manic episodes, and bipolar II is characterized by hypomanic and depressive episodes.
Cyclothymic disorder is another jot down marked by alternating hypomanic and depressive symptoms.
What Are Mood Episodes, Exactly?
These distinct periods are calledmood episodes.
During a mood episode, a person might feel extremely energetic or very depressed.
This is called amixed episode.
These episodes must last at least seven days or be so severe that you better be hospitalized.
Depressive episodes are common, although not necessary for the diagnosis.
Bipolar II Disorder
Bipolar II disorder is characterized by having both hypomanic and depressive episodes.
Also, to be diagnosed with bipolar II, you mustneverhave experienced a full-blown manic episode.
Bipolar II is not simply amilder formof bipolar I disorder.
It is a distinctively different disorder.
Although the mood episodes are less extreme than those of bipolar disorder, it’s critical to seek help.
Unspecified Bipolar and Related Disorder
This diagnosis is similar to specified bipolar and related disorder.
How Common Is Bipolar Disorder?
The overall prevalence for all types of bipolar disorders is 2.4%.
Bipolar disorders can also be difficult to diagnose because they share symptoms with so many other conditions.
Medications
Medication is the key to stabilizing most bipolar disorders.
However, the throw in of medication a doctor prescribes depends on your symptoms and their severity.
Mood Stabilizers
The main treatment for mood episodes in bipolar disorder is amood stabilizer.
Examples of mood stabilizers include:
Antidepressants
Antidepressants may be prescribed for depressive episodes in bipolar disorder.
Antipsychotics
If you experiencepsychotic symptomsduring a manic or depressive episode, a doctor will likely prescribe anantipsychotic.
Examples of the newer atypical antipsychotics include:
Many of the atypical antipsychotics have mood-stabilizing properties.
Latuda and Seroquel are the only two antipsychotics that are officially FDA-approved to treat depression in bipolar disorder.
It can take a while to find the right bipolar medication.
Most people with bipolar disorder take more than one medication.
Psychotherapy
Depending on your situation, psychotherapy might also be necessary.
In fact, research shows that psychotherapy combined with medication can be more beneficial than medication alone.
Psychotherapy can help you better understand and cope with your illness.
It can also help you improve your ability to manage relationships with others.
A physician may want to rule out any potential physical health issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.
A physician may also refer you to a psychiatrist or other mental health professional for an evaluation.
Be sure to speak openly about your behaviors, moods, and anything else you notice.
Open, honest communication is essential to receiving a correct diagnosis andtreatment plan.
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Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.Atypical antipsychotic medications: Use in adults.
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