Bipolar disorder is a type of mental disorder. Bipolar Affective Disorder has two different forms that present with different sets of signs, symptoms, diagnoses and treatments. These are known as Bipolar I Disorder and Bipolar II Disorder. These disorders are diagnosed using criteria developed and updated in the DSM-5. The DSM-5 is an acronym that stands for: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. This updated version of the DSM, provides a complete chapter on diagnosing Bipolar and Bipolar Related Disorders. It even includes Cyclothymic Disorder which is a disorder that does not quite meet all the criteria to be considered Bipolar Disorder. Patients who do experience the signs and symptoms of Bipolar disorder, but do not meet the full criteria for either portion of the mania, hypomania or major depression can be classified as Cyclothymic Disorder. Also included in the DSM-5 manual is “manic-like” phenomena which provide a separate set of diagnostic criteria and guidelines that are unique to other outside stimuli that may contribute to this manic-like behavior. This is not considered to be true Bipolar Disorder. Drugs are an example of outside stimuli that can contribute to “manic-like” behavior. A patient cannot be diagnosed with a psychiatric illness if he or she is altered with drugs.

Bipolar disorder is a type of mental disorder. The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) provides a complete chapter on diagnosing Bipolar and Bipolar Related Disorders. In order to meet the DSM-5 criteria under Bipolar I Disorder, the patient must have an episode of mania that lasts at least one week in duration; or the episode of mania results in hospitalization or impairment within their job or social realms. The episode of mania must not occur because of alcohol, drugs or other medical conditions. Therefore, the patient must be cleared medically prior to being evaluated for Bipolar I Disorder. The patient must also experience mood disturbances that result in consequences at work. These patients may even become a threat to themselves or others during these mood disturbance episodes. Patients must have at least 5 signs/symptoms associated with major depression that occur for two weeks. If the patient meets these criteria, then they may be diagnosed with Bipolar I Disorder. Bipolar Disorder I: Manic Episodes and Major Depressive Episodes Mania is characterized by mood disturbances that may be of the following: elation, irritability or expansiveness. In order to be considered a manic episode three of the following signs/symptoms must be present for at least one week or result in severe consequences within the patient’s work, family or social life:

Bipolar disorder is a type of mental disorder. The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) provides a complete chapter on diagnosing Bipolar and Bipolar Related Disorders. Bipolar II Disorder: Hypomania Episodes and Major Depressive Episodes Bipolar II Disorder is characterized by episodes of hypomania and episodes of depression. Hypomania is defined as elevated, expansive or irritable mood disturbance that lasts for at least 4 days in a row. It must include at least three of the following symptoms: grandiosity, decreased need for sleep, excessive talking/pressured speech, racing thoughts or flight of ideas, clear evidence of distractibility; increased level of goal-focused activity at home, at work, or sexually; and/or excessive pleasurable activities often with painful consequences. While patients who have Bipolar I and Bipolar II will have these episodes of mania, the difference between the two types of Bipolar is that those who experience hypomania, do not have symptoms so serious that they interfere with their ability to function. Bipolar II Disorder patient’s symptoms do not result in hospitalization, impairment of job, or social functioning. On the other hand, patients who have Bipolar I disorder will have a significant impairment that may result in hospitalization. Patients with Bipolar II Disorder will also experience signs/symptoms associated with a major depressive disorder.

If you or someone you know is experiencing these mood disturbances and changes in behavior it is imperative to get to a physician for proper evaluation. Once your medical provider evaluates your symptoms, he/she may perform some laboratory work so that the appropriate medical illnesses can be ruled out. A detailed history and physical will be performed to ensure that the mood disturbances and changes in behavior are not secondary to drugs, alcohol or other medical conditions that may require treatment. Once drugs, alcohol and other medical conditions have been ruled out then your physician may refer you to a Psychiatrist. A Psychiatrist will be able to evaluate the patient’s signs/symptoms and utilize the DSM-5 to provide an appropriate diagnosis. Once an appropriate diagnosis has been made then appropriate management can be initiated. It is imperative to remember that patients who present with Bipolar I Disorder will experience episodes of mania and episodes of depression and it is essential to make sure the patient is not suicidal or homicidal. It is also imperative to make sure that the patient is not experiencing any acute and/or chronic psychosis so that the patient is not a danger to himself or others. The therapeutic treatment of Bipolar I Disorder will depend on which part of the disorder the patient is currently in; there is different management for the patient who is experiencing the manic episodes as compared to those patients who are currently experiencing a depressive episode.

Bipolar disorder is a type of mental disorder. As with any new diagnosis, the diagnosis of Bipolar disease can come as a shock and even be overwhelming. Therefore, it is essential that the patient is educated on the different signs and symptoms associated with the mania, hypomania and depressive episodes. By providing patient education, patients and their families will be able to appropriately cope and provide support to one another. Having the knowledge of what Bipolar disorders are and how they are diagnosed and managed can provide empowerment to the patient and family members. It is important for patients with Bipolar disorder to stay focused on short term achievable goals. Having a focused schedule and specific goals with a daily routine can provide an environment that allows for patients with this disorder to succeed. Finding healthy ways to express your energy is imperative. Such activities as hobbies, exercise, and recreational activities are productive methods of coping with bipolar and staying focused. Having a support group to provide an outlet for the individual the ability to connect with others who are going through the same thing is also effective. Bipolar disorder is a diagnosis of exclusion. If you or someone you know is experiencing signs and symptoms of mania, hypomania or depression please speak with a healthcare provider today.