What is Bipolar II Disorder?
According to the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI), bipolar II disorder is a subset of bipolar disorder where the patient will present with depressive episodes alternating with hypomanic episodes. However, these hypomanic episodes never generally transform into a “full-blown” manic episode.1
Who Is at Risk for Bipolar II Disorder?
What Are the Symptoms of Bipolar II Disorder?
- Decreased need for sleep
- Excessive spending
- Going from one idea to another quickly and often
- Hypersexuality
- Increased energy and hyperactivity
- Inflated self-image
- Smoking or drinking more than usual
- Engaging in risky behavior
- Making and pursuing grandiose, unrealistic plans
- Rapid, uninterruptible, and loud speech
- Substance abuse
How is Bipolar II Diagnosed?
- One episode of major depression lasting at least two weeks and one episode of hypomania lasting around four days.
- No full-blown manic episode, as bipolar II manic episode symptoms are milder compared to other manic disorders.
- Sorrow or impairment in social, job-related, or other critical areas of operation that may be clinically significant. Depressive symptoms may cause impairments.
Physical Examination
Psychiatric Evaluation
Risk Factors of Bipolar II Disorder
Having a first-degree relative who also has the same disorder, such as a parent or sibling with bipolar II disorder, may increase the risk of developing the condition or serve as a cause for the first episode in individuals. In addition, stress, substance use disorders, and alcohol use disorders are other bipolar type II risk factors.
Family History
Excessive Alcohol or Drug Use
Lack of Sleep
Stress
How is Bipolar II Disorder Treated?
Medication
Antidepressants
Antipsychotics
You may take antipsychotic medications to treat bipolar II disorder with psychotic features. Suppose you have delusions or hallucinations, or experience drug use or a mental disorder such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression can cause psychosis.
You may also get a prescription for antipsychotics alongside other medications to alleviate symptoms associated with delirium, dementia, or other mental health conditions.
Benzodiazepines
Mood Stabilizers
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is another intervention used in managing bipolar II disorder. The most common and helpful therapies used to help with bipolar II disorder include:
Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
In this therapy, you will learn how to identify and correct problematic behavior by using a range of skills that you can use to stop substance abuse and related problems. Mental health illnesses such as bipolar II disorder may be treated using CBT since it teaches you coping skills that enhance self-control.
Family-Focused Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is used broadly in treating many mental health problems, including bipolar II disorder, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance dependence, eating disorders, and many others.
Group Therapy
Tips for Coping With Bipolar II Disorder
- Actively participating in your treatment plan
- Monitoring your moods, symptoms, and risks factors
- Keeping track of your feelings
- Noticing changes in your desires and habits over time
- Anticipating your risks
- Utilizing therapy options as they are presented to you
- Making a plan of action for when symptoms might change
- Creating an action plan for wellness recovery (WRAP)
- Staying connected to people who support you
- Taking good care of your physical health by resting, exercising, and eating well
Get Help For Bipolar II Disorder at Pacific Beach Health
Bipolar II disorder can cause many problems, especially if it has not been diagnosed properly or has not been well managed. Consider seeking help for your condition at Pacific Beach Health and begin your journey towards recovery today.
Resources
- https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/Bipolar-Disorder
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6116765/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319280
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519704/table/ch3.t23/
- https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications
- https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/benzodiazepines