Bipolar Disorder is characterized by the intermittent presence of manic episodes and episodes of depression. For this reason it is called ‘bipolar’ disorder and is also known as manic-depressive disorder (because the manifestations oscillate from one pole to another).
Within this broad spectrum, it may happen that manic episodes are more intense than depressive episodes, or vice versa. For this reason, they are currently recognized two types of bipolar disorder: Bipolar Disorder Type I and Bipolar Disorder Type II
Bipolar Disorder Type II, also written including Roman numerals (Bipolar Disorder Type II) is a mood pattern characterized by major depressive episodes, alternating with hypomanic episodes. That is to say, Depression manifests itself more intensely than mania
Currently, Bipolar Disorder Type 2 is one of the clinical sub-categories found within the category of “Bipolar Disorder and Related Disorders” in the fifth version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manuals of Mental Disorders (DSM-V). its acronym in English).
Diagnostic criteria for Bipolar Disorder Type II (according to the DSM-V)
As we have said, Bipolar Disorder type 2 can be diagnosed in the presence of two large and complex phenomena: a hypomanic episode and a major depressive episode In turn, these phenomena must have a series of specific characteristics (in order to differentiate Bipolar Disorder Type I from type II).
Furthermore, during your diagnosis it must be specified which of the episodes was most recent, and how it was, for example, whether it has occurred in rapid cycles, whether there are psychotic characteristics if it is accompanied by other elements such as anxiety, if there is a seasonal pattern, and if the severity is mild, moderate or severe.
The hypomanic episode
It refers to a period of excessively elevated mood, for example, more expansive or more irritable than normal, characterized by a visible and persistent increase in energy. For its diagnosis, this period must have lasted at least four days in a row and must occur for most of the day.
This visible and persistent increase in energy It must have caused a significant change in habitual behavior, but is not seriously interfering with the fulfillment of responsibilities that are considered socially appropriate for age, gender, social position, etc. of the person.
This increase in energy is characterized by the presence of at least three of the following phenomena, as long as they cannot be explained by the physiological effects of any substance or treatment:
If all this is accompanied by psychotic features, then the episode is not hypomanic, but manic, which requires a different intervention. Likewise, all of the above must be sufficiently noticeable and visible to those closest to you.
Major depressive episode
As its name suggests, a major depressive episode is the presence of a depressed mood that is experienced most of the day and almost every day, which significantly influences the person’s daily activities.
Clinically this episode can be diagnosed when the mood has at least five of the following characteristics, and also has produced clinically significant discomfort that is, it has caused the person to be unable to fulfill the responsibilities that are considered socially accepted for their age, gender, social status, etc. (e.g. with work, studies, family):
None of the above phenomena can be explained by the effects of a substance or medical treatment. For its diagnosis, it is important not only to consider the list, but also the clinical judgment of the specialist based on the person’s medical history and the cultural norms that make it considered a significant discomfort.
Therapies and treatments
Bipolar Disorder type 2 is not so much a disease as a life condition, however, there are several options to Help the person gain greater control over their emotions and on the oscillations of his mood.
The most effective options are those that combine appropriate pharmacological therapy with long-term psychotherapy. Regarding medications Those most frequently included are mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants. For its part, the most common psychotherapies are cognitive behavioral therapy, systemic therapy and psychoeducation.
Currently, many studies and research are being carried out (and even civil associations and critical models) to better understand Bipolar Disorder Type 2, with which more and more options are being developed so that people who have had this diagnosis, and their families, can have good living conditions.
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This article has been reviewed by our editorial team at PsychologyFor to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to evidence-based research. The content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice.
