People with bipolar disorder may also experience stable moods called euthymic moods between episodes of mania and depression. Bipolar disorder can be misdiagnosed as other conditions, especially depression. Here’s how to tell the difference.
Types of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is categorized into subtypes. These subtypes include bipolar 1 disorder, bipolar 2 disorder, and cyclothymic disorder. “Manic-depressive illness” is an earlier term for bipolar disorder, and it is still used at times.
Bipolar 1
In bipolar 1 disorder, a person experiences at least one manic episode. They may experience major depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes. They often shift between the different mood states.
Bipolar 2
In bipolar 2 disorder, a person experiences both major depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes. As in bipolar 1, they shift between the two states. Unlike in bipolar 1 disorder, however, people do not experience manic episodes.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Cyclothymic disorder is sometimes referred to as a milder version of bipolar disorder. This is because people with cyclothymic disorder do not have symptoms that are severe, frequent, or lasting long enough to be considered a major depressive episode or a hypomanic episode. However, they do experience phases with symptoms of hypomania and depression for at least two years.
Symptoms
The symptoms of bipolar disorder fluctuate. A person with bipolar disorder may experience a phase of one set of symptoms and then a phase of another set of symptoms. Often alternating between manic and depressive symptoms. They may also experience phases of euthymia, which is a phase that’s neither manic nor depressive but rather a stable mental state.
Depression or Depressive Mood
To be considered a major depressive episode, a person must experience symptoms for at least two weeks, and they must have at least five symptoms of depression.
Mania or Hypomania
The symptoms of mania and hypomania are the same. However, mania is more severe than hypomania. Therefore, it is more likely for mania to interfere with daily life.
For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database.
Bipolar Test
A bipolar test is not to determine a diagnosis. Instead, it can be used as a guide to discuss concerns with a doctor. Anyone who finds many of these statements apply to them should seek the support of a healthcare professional.
Getting Diagnosed
Only a qualified healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, can diagnose bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions. There is no medical test for bipolar disorder. Instead, it is diagnosed by ruling out other possibilities, evaluating symptoms, and taking into consideration past experiences and family history.
Talk to Your Doctor
The first step to managing bipolar disorder is to talk to a doctor such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. If needed, a primary care practitioner such as a family doctor can help with a referral to a specialist. Support from a healthcare provider is important to treat symptoms and reduce bipolar episodes.
Summary
Bipolar disorder can involve shifts between depressive episodes and manic or hypomanic episodes. There are different types of this mental health illness, and the severity of symptoms and duration of episodes may vary. While there may also be phases without depressive or manic symptoms, the mood changes are part of a lifelong condition. However, diagnosis, treatment, and management are possible with the care of a healthcare professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist.
For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database.
A Word From Verywell
Suspecting bipolar disorder and receiving a diagnosis can be scary and upsetting. Even so, there is hope for management with treatment and coping techniques. If you or a loved one is struggling with symptoms of depression, mania, or hypomania, you are not alone. Reach out to a healthcare professional such as a primary care practitioner, a psychiatrist, or a psychologist for support.
