While the stigma surrounding mental health continues to get broken down and we continue to have more open and honest conversations not just about mental health but getting help for mental health conditions, it’s important that people have an accurate understanding of what different mental health conditions may look like for different individuals. After all, if we don’t properly understand how many mental health conditions manifest then it may be difficult to get the help needed for either ourselves or loved ones.
This is particularly true as it relates to Bipolar 1 and Bipolar 2. While they are both mental health conditions characterized by extreme mood shifts, they are two separate disorders, each with its own set of symptoms and treatment methods.
So, whether you or a loved one may be suffering from bipolar disorder, or you just want to learn more about the differences between Bipolar 1 vs 2, keep reading as we break down the key differences as well as discuss symptoms and treatment methods.
What’s the Difference Between Bipolar 1 and Bipolar 2?
While bipolar disorder affects millions of people both domestically and around the world, not everyone has the same or similar experiences as it relates to bipolar disorder.
As we touched on in the introduction, while they are both a type of bipolar disorder, Bipolar 1 and Bipolar 2 are two distinct types of mental health conditions with their own set of characteristics and symptoms.
For example, Bipolar 1 is characterized primarily by manic episodes that are often severe and can even prevent the person from being able to go about their daily lives. In some extreme instances, these episodes can even require hospitalization.
Bipolar 2, on the other hand, is characterized by less intense manic episodes, known as hypomania. Hypomanic episodes tend to be less severe and may not come with the same levels of disruption to a person’s life as manic episodes.
What Are Common Misconceptions About Bipolar 2?
You may think that Bipolar 2 is a “milder” form of bipolar disorder. While it would make sense that you, or anyone else, would come to that conclusion, it is a common misconception. In reality, just because Bipolar 2 may be “milder”, it is not any easier to live with or treat.
Let’s take a look at some other common misconceptions as it relates to Bipolar 2:
- Bipolar 2 is not as serious – First off all mental health conditions should be treated with the same amount of compassion and care, beyond just that though, Bipolar 2 often comes with significant depressive episodes that can lead to suicidal thoughts and actions.
- Hypomania doesn’t impact daily life – While it is true that hypomania may not impact daily life as extremely as mania, that doesn’t mean it still can’t and doesn’t have adverse effects on a person’s life. Symptoms associated with hypomania can still lead to several challenges.
- Bipolar 2 can be managed without professional treatment – Both Bipolar 1 and 2 should be treated professionally using a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.
Bipolar 1
Now that we have properly established that Bipolar 1 and Bipolar 2 are different, and squashed a few common misconceptions, let’s take a deeper look at each disorder individually.
Bipolar 1 is often the more recognized form of bipolar disorder due to its association with mania, which can be severe enough to require hospitalization.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Bipolar 1
The biggest identifying factor of Bipolar 1 is the presence of at least one manic episode that lasts at least seven days or is severe enough to require immediate hospital care.
Common symptoms associated with Bipolar 1 include:
- Increased energy
- Lack of a need for sleep
- Inflated self-esteem
- Rapid speech
- Racing thoughts
- Impulsive or risky behaviors
Properly diagnosing Bipolar 1 often requires a full psychiatric assessment and evaluation conducted by a mental health professional based on the person’s clinical history, severity of symptoms, and patterns.
Treatment Options for Bipolar 1
Treatment for Bipolar 1 often includes one or more of the following options:
- Mood stabilizers such as lithium and valproate
- Antipsychotic medications
- Therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Hospitalization (in extreme cases)
Bipolar 2
Bipolar 2, while often less disruptive in terms of manic episodes, can involve prolonged periods of depression. Its primary feature is the presence of hypomania along with recurrent depressive episodes.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Bipolar 2
The defining feature of Bipolar 2 is hypomania, which, while similar to mania, is less severe and typically shorter in duration, often lasting four consecutive days or more.
Common symptoms associated with Bipolar 2 include:
- Irritable mood
- Increased energy
- Lack of a need of sleep
- Impulsive or risk-taking behavior
- Loss of interest in activities
- Fatigue
- Depressive feelings
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
Much like Bipolar 1, Bipolar 2 is often diagnosed by a mental health professional. However, Bipolar 2 may be more challenging to properly diagnose due to the subtlety of hypomanic symptoms and the similarity of its depressive episodes to other forms of depression.
Treatment Options for Bipolar 2
Treatment for Bipolar 2 often includes one or more of the following options:
- Mood stabilizers
- Antidepressants
- Therapy
- Overall lifestyle changes such as exercise and a well-balanced diet
Peak Wellness Offers Treatment for Bipolar Disorder in NJ
At Peak Wellness, we understand the challenges of living with any kind of mental health condition, especially Bipolar 1 or Bipolar 2. That’s why we offer outpatient treatment for several mental health conditions including bipolar disorder. We offer individualized treatment plans tailored to each person’s specific needs, combining therapy, medication, and lifestyle support to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
If you or a loved one is struggling with Bipolar 1, Bipolar 2, or any other kind of mental health condition and is looking to get started with professional treatment, contact us today.
