Bipolar disorder is a condition where an individual swings between euphoric highs, known as mania, and extreme lows, or depression. It can be challenging to hold a job, maintain relationships, and practice self-care. Fortunately, with the help of our bipolar disorder treatment center in Los Angeles, it is possible to heal. To learn about the mental health treatment options available, contact Silicon Beach Treatment Center today at 866.520.4881.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
The antiquated term for bipolar disorder is manic-depression, clearly indicating the dualistic experience of both mania and a depressive state. While most people who endure a manic episode will at some point meet the criteria for a major depressive episode in their lifetime, the experience of a Major Depressive Episode is no longer necessary for a diagnosis of Bipolar I. However, both the experience of mania and depression is necessary for the diagnosis of Bipolar II.
For the individual with bipolar disorder, the lived experience of the manic episode may feel euphoric with exaggerated happiness; this may switch into irritability if wants are denied. While in a manic state, this individual may feel charismatic, charming, and magnetic. The manic state creates a feeling of invincibility. The individual in this state may feel boundless and simultaneously apply themselves to multiple new projects regardless of skill level, practicality, and previous interest or knowledge. These projects may be social, religious, political, or professional.
What Is the Difference Between Clinical Bipolar I and Bipolar II?
The distinguishing factor between Bipolar I and Bipolar II is the severity of the manic episode and the presence or absence of a major depressive episode. An individual with Bipolar I will have experienced a state of mania that is longer in sustained duration and has a notable negative impact on life functioning than that experienced by a person diagnosed with Bipolar II. The manic episode experienced in Bipolar II is called hypomania. It is shorter in duration and has a lesser detrimental effect on social and occupational functioning than the manic episode experienced in Bipolar I. The diagnosis of Bipolar II depends on the presence of a major depressive episode. These episodes are marked by symptoms such as:
- Feelings of hopelessness, emptiness, or sadness
- Changes in sleep and appetite
- Loss of pleasure or interest in hobbies
- Trouble concentrating, thinking, remembering things, and making decisions
- Withdrawing from relationships
What Are the Different Types of Clinical Bipolar Disorder?
American Psychiatric Association states that there are six types of clinical bipolar:
- Bipolar I Disorder
- Bipolar II Disorder
- Substance/medication-induced bipolar and related disorders
- Bipolar and related disorders due to another medical condition disorder
- Other specified bipolar disorder
- Unspecified bipolar and related disorder
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Clinical Bipolar I Disorder?
The diagnosis of Bipolar I depends on the experience of a manic episode. A manic episode is defined as lasting for at least seven days, for most of the day, nearly every day, and entails an inflated, extreme amount of goal-driven energy and activity. The behaviors during the manic episode are so extreme as to cause a noticeable impact socially or at work. It can also necessitate hospitalization as the individual is at risk for harm to themself or others. Alternatively, the individual shows noticeable signs of psychosis (as in the experience of hallucinations or delusions that are driving and fueling the goal-driven behavior).
During this period, three of the following symptoms are experienced to an extreme and noticeable degree. In addition, there is a marked difference from the individual’s normal display of characteristics. If the underlying mood is irritable, then four of the following symptoms must be present for a Bipolar I diagnosis:
- Inflated self-esteem
- Feeling rested after only three hours of sleep
- Incessant talking
- Racing thoughts or flight of ideas, meaning a series of unrelated thoughts
Distractibility with attention being drawn to unimportant external stimuli - Goal-directed driven behavior socially, sexually, vocationally, educationally, or physical agitation toward non-goal directed activity
- Participation in high-risk behaviors, especially with social, sexual, or financial risk
An individual with Bipolar I may also experience hypomania and a major depressive episode, but this is not necessary for the Bipolar I diagnosis.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar II Disorder?
An individual with Bipolar II Disorder experiences a hypomanic episode and a major depressive episode. A hypomania episode is comprised of the same symptomology as hyper mania. However, it lasts for four days as opposed to seven in hyper mania. Also, for a hypomania episode to be determined, the episode does not cause serious detriment to social and occupational life, does not require hospitalization, and does not involve psychosis. To be diagnosed with Bipolar II, the individual also needs to experience a major depressive episode.
Seek Treatment at Silicon Beach Treatment Center
At Silicon Beach Treatment Center, our task when treating any area of client suffering is to identify the nature of your experience with it. You can then explore the underlying causes and work together to usher in resiliency. You can also foster a more hopeful outlook and restore equilibrium. Our caring, trained professionals will work diligently to bring you the support, interventions, and treatment you need. For more information about our bipolar disorder treatment center in Los Angeles, contact Silicon Beach Treatment Center today at 866.520.4881.