Bipolar Disorder I vs. Bipolar II

Bipolar Disorder is characterized by abnormal and significant periods of depressive behavior that includes extensive times of manic or hypomanic behaviors. These episodes may last weeks or months. The disease may be misdiagnosed if care is not taken to consider the chronic cycles of changes in mood, energy levels and sleep disturbances. This disorder may be genetic and usually becomes evident in the late teens or early adulthood. Symptoms may 'kindle' or become more frequent and intense over time.

There are two types of bipolar disorder. The first kind is easier to diagnose as it is characterized by psychotic breaks, paranoia and delusions without the major episodes of depression. Experts say there are no mixed episodes of mania and depression. Persons with this type of bipolar disorder usually need hospitalization.

Bipolar II is harder to diagnose as there are fewer symptoms. Manic activity is seen as creativity and highly productive behavior. The person experiences an increase in energy and the mind is full of ideas. History shows that many 'artists' suffered from bipolar disorder. The hypomania in this type of bipolar disorder does not affect daily life whereas breaks with reality in the first kind seriously impair the lives of those who suffer with the disorder.

Not all experts agree with that there are no mixed episodes in Bipolar II. Many experts indicate that they've seen many cases of Bipolar II with mixed episodes of mania and depression. The mortality rate due to suicide is 12% to 15% in bipolar persons.