Bipolar 1 Vs. Bipolar 2: Unraveling the Differences
Bipolar disorder is characterized by mood changes, sleep disturbances, changes in activity levels, and difficulty with daily functioning. There are different types of bipolar disorder. In this blog, we’ll review the differences between type 1 and 2 bipolar disorder. These two conditions share a lot in common, but they have some important differences. Understanding which type of the disorder you have can help you take steps to better manage the condition.
Quick Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the two disorders.
Bipolar 1
Manic episodes - Are present and these are characterized by extremely elevated mood, pressured speech, rapid thoughts, and increased energy.
Psychotic symptoms - May be present.
Depressive episodes - May or may not be present.
Bipolar 2
Hypomanic episodes - Characterized by elevated mood and increased energy. Aren’t as severe as manic episodes.
Psychotic symptoms - May be present during depressive episodes.
Depressive episodes - Are present.
Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Bipolar
Psychiatrists or healthcare providers use the following criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to diagnose bipolar 1 and 2.
Bipolar 1
To be diagnosed with bipolar 1 disorder, you must have had at least one episode of mania that lasted at least 1 week or of any duration — if it required inpatient hospitalization. Bipolar 1 mania symptoms include:
Increased energy
Change in mood, can be either euphoria or extreme irritability
Excessive talkativeness
Inflated self-esteem
Restlessness
Disorganized or racing thoughts
Impaired concentration or memory
Risky behaviors
Poor sleep or a decreased need for sleep
Psychotic symptoms may be present with bipolar 1. Bipolar psychosis symptoms may include delusions (false beliefs), paranoia, irrational thoughts, and hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there).
A person with bipolar 1 may make irrational decisions during manic episodes. They may engage in behaviors that have a high risk for harm.
Bipolar II
For a bipolar 2 disorder diagnosis, you must have experienced an episode of hypomania that lasted at least four days. Hypomanic episodes are similar to manic episodes, but they aren’t as severe and typically don’t require hospitalization. You must have also experienced one episode of major depression lasting two weeks or more. Depressive episodes are characterized by extended periods of hopelessness, sadness, feelings of worthlessness, sleep disturbance, and a loss of interest in normal activities. Psychotic symptoms can be present but only during depressive episodes.
Suicidal ideation or thoughts of death can occur in both bipolar 1 and 2. Both disorders can significantly interfere with relationships, work, and other areas of life.
Common Questions
Here are some of the most common questions people have about bipolar 1 versus bipolar 2 disorder.
Which Is More Serious, Bipolar 1 or Bipolar 2?
Most people think that bipolar 1 is more serious because manic episodes can be intense and result in hospitalization. However, people with bipolar 2 may have more frequent depressive episodes that are more persistent than the ones that occur in bipolar 2. Additionally, suicide is a risk with both bipolar 1 and 2.
Can Bipolar 2 Turn Into Bipolar I?
Yes, it is possible that a person may start off being diagnosed with bipolar 2 and later be diagnosed with bipolar 1 after a manic episode that leads to hospitalization. In one study, 17 percent of people diagnosed with bipolar 2 disorder were later diagnosed with bipolar 1.
What Is the Difference Between Bipolar 1 and 2 and Cyclothymia?
Cyclothymia is a “milder” form of bipolar disorder. A person with cyclothymia will experience ups and downs, but they are less severe than either bipolar 1 or bipolar 2 disorder. With cyclothymia, the symptoms must have been present for at least two years for a diagnosis. This is not the case for bipolar I or 2.
A Quick Recap
Bipolar 1 and bipolar 2 are both characterized by mood and activity changes. Bipolar 1 features manic episodes, while bipolar 2 is characterized by less severe hypomanic episodes. Both disorders result in dysfunction in daily life.
Depending on the type of bipolar disorder you have, your psychiatrist or mental health provider will create a treatment plan that may include medications, therapy, and other strategies to help you manage the condition.
