Types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is divided into four groups based on the nature of the symptoms experienced. Bipolar I and II disorder may further be subdivided into Rapid Cycling Bipolar disorder if an individual suffers more than four episodes within a twelve month period.

• Bipolar I Disorder
• Bipolar II Disorder
• Cyclothymic disorder
• Bipolar Disorder not otherwise specified

Bipolar I Disorder

An individual is diagnosed as having Bipolar I Disorder when they have experienced one or more Manic Episodes or Mixed Episodes that have not been caused by drug abuse or another medical condition. These individuals may or may not have experienced a major depressive disorder in between episodes.

Bipolar II Disorder

An individual is diagnosed as having Bipolar II Disorder when they have experienced one or more Major Depressive Episodes, as well as one or more Hypomanic Episodes, providing these episodes have not been caused by drug abuse, another medication, or a medical condition.

Cyclothymic Disorder

Individuals with cyclothymic disorder experience chronic changes in mood that range from hypomania to mild depression. The number, severity, or duration of symptoms in this disorder do not reach Manic or Major Depressive Episode levels.

Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (NOS)

When patients experience Manic, Hypomanic, Mixed or Major Depressive Episodes that do not fit the pattern found in Bipolar I, II, or Cyclothymic Disorder, they may be diagnosed as having Bipolar Disorder NOS.