The Different Types of Bipolar: Know the Facts

Bipolar disorder and major depression are two different illnesses. Bipolar disorder encompasses both depression and mania. Both mental disorders are fairly common within the United States, and those who believe they might be struggling with either disorder are encouraged to seek help from their physician. Bipolar disorder can be broken down into a few different types, the most common of which are Bipolar I and Bipolar 2.

Someone suffering from bipolar I will have at least one major manic episode in their lifetime. While some people look at mania as being a positive, good thing, for someone with bipolar disorder, it is not. Bipolar I mania is a feeling of euphoria; however, it is also a feeling that you can do no wrong. There is a heightened sense of abilities, both physically and mentally.

An individual with bipolar 2 will have at least one hypomanic episode in their lifetime, but their mood disorder is overwhelmed by periods of depression. Hypomania is a less severe form of mania (as in the case of Bipolar I), and might not necessarily land the individual in the hospital or jail, it might seem more like a really good mood, a state of euphoria, coupled with agitation, high energy, and rapid speech and thoughts.

There are other types of bipolar disease and these include rapid cycling, NOS (not otherwise specified), and cyclothymia. While everyone has mood swings, people with bipolar disorder find that their mood swings are different in that they are more intense, they last longer than usual, and they tend to interfere with their life.
 
BPHope.com is an online community that is geared toward helping people with bipolar mania disorder find hope and harmony. If you are interested in finding out more about bipolar I and bipolar 2, as well as information on symptoms, treatments, relationships, strategies, and a community forum, visit BPHope.com today.