Recognizing The Different Types Of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder, to put it simply, is a brain disorder causing unusual mood changes and shifts in energy and level of activity. These moods are known as manic, hypomanic, and depressive episodes. But is there just one type of bipolar disorder to fit all cases? No, much like other mental illnesses such as anxiety, which includes types such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and panic disorder, there are different types of classifications of bipolar disorder.

Dive in headfirst and start reading to understand the different moods in bipolar disorders and how each type of bipolar disorder presents itself and how they are treated.

Understanding Manic And Hypomanic Episodes

In a manic episode, patients are likely to experience feelings of extreme elation or on a ‘high,’ see an increase in activity and energy, have difficulty sleeping, do risky things such as engaging in reckless sex or spending lots of money, and believe they can do many things at the same time. They may also feel quite ‘wired’ or extremely ‘jumpy,’ talk incredibly fast about many different topics, become easily agitated, feel 'keyed up,' and may also feel as if their thoughts are moving quite quickly.

Hypomanic episodes can have many of the same markers as manic episodes, such as seeing an increase in energy or having difficulty sleeping, but these markers will be less severe. Also, during one of these episodes, the patient may be highly productive, feel quite good, and overall will likely function well. However, family and friends may recognize the mood swings as being out of the norm for most individuals.

Continue reading to understand what depressive episodes in bipolar disorders are and what behaviors patients are likely to exhibit.