Today we will be taking a closer look at the symptoms and cycles of each type of bipolar disorder. We will also be diving into the role of acceptance on your path toward a healthy lifestyle.
Bipolar disorders are classified according to the severity of the individual’s manic episodes. If you need a quick reminder, manic episodes are periods of insatiable excitement and irrational thinking. During this time, individuals with bipolar disorder are prone to making reckless decisions and engaging in risky behavior. Keep in mind that mania is a spectrum, not a strict definition. Severe mania for some can be mid-range for others, so it is crucial that individuals with bipolar disorder are consistently mindful of their unique moods and behaviors.
The first type of bipolar disorder, referred to as Bipolar I (one), features severe manic episodes. These episodes significantly affect the individual’s mood, making them more susceptible to the risks of mania. Health care professionals often distinguish Bipolar I’s manic episodes by whether or not the individual requires hospitalization. If not, the individual may be experiencing hypomania instead. Hypomanic episodes are less dramatic phases of elevated mood or social dysfunction. Bipolar individuals experiencing only hypomanic episodes may be diagnosed with Bipolar II (two).
It is tempting to jump to the conclusion that Bipolar II is the milder version of Bipolar I, but that is not always the case. Manic episodes can be debilitating, but many individuals with Bipolar I have developed effective strategies to navigate these challenging periods. On the other hand, many individuals with Bipolar II, despite undergoing less severe hypomania, experience more negative outcomes. How is that possible?
The answer revolves around accepting your illness. Whether you have Bipolar I or Bipolar II, the first step toward healthy living is to acknowledge that instances of mania (or hypomania) are not good for you. During a manic episode, you may feel unusually confident or powerful, so your brain is failing to notice how the episode is hurting you. Individuals with hypomania are especially vulnerable to this misconception, because the symptoms are less obvious. By letting yourself remain in denial, you may actually be worsening your illness. Individuals who leave their hypomania unchecked often experience more frequent or severe episodes in the future.
Of course, manic episodes are not the only part of bipolar disorder. For both Bipolar I and Bipolar II, the severity of the depressive episodes remains largely the same; however, individuals with Bipolar II tend to experience longer phases of depression than those with Bipolar I. These extended periods of sadness can be very difficult to get through, especially when you experience multiple cycles within a single year.
So which is better to have, Bipolar I or Bipolar II? Unfortunately, there is not really a clear answer to that question, so no matter which type you have (or think your have), take active steps to accept your limitations, avoid known triggers, and manage your stress. Acceptance will not make your illness disappear, but it will help you take back control of your lifestyle.
Damaris Aragon, ARNP, BC provides a full spectrum of mental health care to people in Spokane, Washington and the surrounding areas. She focuses on providing compassionate personalized care that adheres to current evidence-based standards. Reach out to Damaris through her contact page or calling 509-342-6592.
