What Are Bipolar Disorder 2 Symptoms?

Bipolar disorder 2 symptoms can vary in severity for those that struggle with the disorder. Read on to learn more about what these symptoms are.

Introduction to Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder type 2 is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by episodes of hypomania, which is a less severe form of mania and depression. Bipolar disorder 2 symptoms can vary from person to person.

Bipolar disorder is a chronic illness characterized by periods of intense high and low energy. It is a complex condition that affects people of all ages, gender, and races. Bipolar disorder is often misdiagnosed and can cause significant disruptions in an individual’s life. Also, according to statistics, 1 in 200 hundred people will develop bipolar type 2 disorder at some point in their lives.¹

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Local Diagnosis and Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

If you need help discerning if you have bipolar disorder type 2 in the Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill area, reach out to Advaita Integrated Medicine today. We can help you figure out what type of bipolar disorder you may have, as well as what treatment opportunities are the best fit for managing any challenging symptoms.

What are the Different Types of Bipolar Disorder?

There are multiple types of bipolar disorder, all with their own subset of symptoms and treatment opportunities. It’s important to make a diagnosis prior to finding personalized treatment. The various types of bipolar disorder include:²

Bipolar 1 Disorder

Bipolar 1 disorder is characterized by manic episodes. A manic episode is an elevated, irritable, or euphoric mood lasting for at least one week or potentially requiring hospitalization. Manic episodes are often followed by depressive episodes, which can also be severe.

Bipolar 2 Disorder

Bipolar 2 disorder is characterized by at least one episode of hypomania and one episode of major depression. Hypomania is a less severe form of mania lasting at least four days. Bipolar disorder 2 symptoms include increased energy, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, and increased confidence.

Hypomania may not require hospitalization, but it can still significantly affect an individual’s life. Depressive episodes in bipolar II disorder can be severe and last for weeks or months.

Cyclothymic Disorder

Cyclothymic disorder is a milder form of bipolar disorder. It is characterized by periods of hypomania and mild depression that last for at least two years in adults or one year in adolescents. Individuals with cyclothymic disorder may experience frequent mood swings that do not meet the criteria for a full manic or depressive episode.

Stats About Bipolar Disorder

According to a comprehensive survey conducted across 11 countries, bipolar spectrum disorders have a lifetime prevalence rate of 2.4%. The study further revealed that bipolar type I has a prevalence rate of 0.6%, while bipolar type II has a rate of 0.4%. While the exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, research suggests that genetic, environmental, and neurological factors play a role in its development.³

Bipolar Disorder 2 Symptoms

Bipolar disorder type 2 is a mood disorder characterized by alternating episodes of hypomania and depression. Hypomania is a milder form of mania that does not cause significant impairment in functioning but is still noticeable to others. Hypomanic episodes will last for at least four days. Individuals with bipolar disorder type 2 experience at least one episode of hypomania and one episode of major depression.

Bipolar disorder 2 symptoms can vary widely among individuals, making it challenging to diagnose and treat. However, some common bipolar disorder 2 symptoms include:⁴

Hypomania

During hypomanic episodes, individuals may experience:

A sense of euphoria
Increased energy
Racing thoughts
Decreased need for sleep
Increased confidence and self-esteem
Increased talkativeness

Depression

During depressive episodes, individuals may experience:

Persistent feelings of sadness
Loss of interest in activities
Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness
Difficulty concentrating
Fatigue and low energy
Suicidal thoughts or self-harm
Changes in appetite and sleep patterns

Risk Factors For Bipolar Disorder Type 2

The exact causes of bipolar disorder type 2 are not yet fully understood. However, research has identified several risk factors that may increase an individual’s likelihood of developing the disorder. Risk factors or potential causes for bipolar disorder type 2 may include:

Trauma or Stress

Traumatic events or significant stressors such as the death of a loved one, financial difficulties, or even a divorce may cause the onset of bipolar disorder type 2. It is important to note that not all individuals who experience these stressors will develop the disorder.

Brain Structure and Function

Research has shown that there may be structural and functional differences in the brains of individuals with bipolar disorder type 2. It is not yet clear whether these differences are a cause or a result of the disorder.

Family History

One of the most significant risk factors for bipolar disorder type 2 is having a family history of the disorder. Studies have shown that individuals who have a parent or sibling with bipolar disorder type 2 are more likely to develop the disorder themselves.

Substance Abuse

The excessive and repeated use of certain substances has shown to significantly impact the development of bipolar disorder 2 symptoms. This may happen due to how substances alter brain chemistry and affect mood regulation.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Bipolar Disorder 2

Advaita Integrated Medicine in the Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill area uses the DSM-5 to help diagnose and look into bipolar disorder 2 symptoms. We take great care to take note of all the symptoms you may have in order to diagnose effectively.

We provide a range of evidence-based treatment options for individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder 2 symptoms. Treatment is typically individualized and may involve a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. The goal of treatment is to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

Medication

Medication can be an effective treatment option for bipolar disorder 2 symptoms. Mood stabilizers can help regulate mood and prevent hypomania or depressive episodes. Other medications, such as antipsychotics and antidepressants, may also be used in combination with mood stabilizers to manage symptoms.

Psychotherapy

During psychotherapy sessions, the therapist works with the individual to identify and explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This is to develop strategies to manage or cope with their symptoms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that has been proven to be effective in treating bipolar disorder. CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.

Get Treatment for Bipolar Disorder 2 Symptoms at AIM

Bipolar disorder type 2 can be challenging to manage, but effective treatment options are available. At Advaita Integrated Medicine in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill area, individuals can receive personalized, local, and evidence-based care to manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

We work with you to create an individualized treatment plan based on your symptoms and any other potential co-occurring disorders. This way, we can help treat the root of the symptoms and work on overall healing and health for you or a loved one.

Reach Out and Begin Healing

If you or a loved one is struggling with bipolar disorder 2 symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. You don’t have to struggle to deal with symptoms by yourself. Contact us today to learn more about their treatment options and start the journey towards recovery.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength and is the first step toward healing.