Understanding Bipolar II Disorder: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

The types of bipolar disorder include bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymia. According to the National Institutes of Health, bipolar II disorder affects approximately 5 percent of people.

Features

• People with bipolar II have mood swings going from extreme highs (mania) to extreme lows (depression). Bipolar II is characterized by episodes of hypomania, highs that typically last a few days.

Treatment

• Doctors may prescribe mood stabilizers, antidepressants or anti-psychotic medications to regulate symptoms of bipolar disorder. Therapy may also be suggested, as well as hospitalization, especially if the patient is suicidal.

Causes

• There is no single known cause of bipolar disorder, but many doctors believe that a combination of genetic, environmental and biochemical factors cause the disorder.

Tests

• If a doctor suspects bipolar disorder, he may perform a physical exam, do blood tests and take a psychological evaluation.

Considerations

• If you have bipolar II disorder, consider joining a support group to learn about coping methods, ways to relax and stress reduction techniques.