Can someone that is Bipolar type 2 have mixed episodes?!
Question: I've received mixed answers. I've heard that they can't, that only people with Bipolar type I can have mixed episodes. However, last I heard I was Bipolar Type 2, but I'm currently experiencing a mixed episode. I'm trying to get opinions before I contact my psychiatrist to ask her what my diagnosis REALLY is.
Answers: I've received mixed answers. I've heard that they can't, that only people with Bipolar type I can have mixed episodes. However, last I heard I was Bipolar Type 2, but I'm currently experiencing a mixed episode. I'm trying to get opinions before I contact my psychiatrist to ask her what my diagnosis REALLY is.
Yes Bipolar II can have mixed episodes. More often they are mixed episodes of depression.
The basic differences between II & I is the severity of the disease, and the length of the cycles. Bipolar II's are known as rapid cycler's which can have cycles within a short period of time, even within the same day, they have more tendencies to be depressed rather than hypomanic.
BPII's also don't have the "true" manic episodes that last a week or longer. Rather it's termed hypomania. To meet criteria in DSM-IV it has to last at least 4 days. Where the mania has to last a minimum of a week. While BPI's do have more of the mixed episodes that doesn't rule out BPII's.
When people think of BP's they think of those who hide out in thier rooms for months at a time then come out and are all over the place, talking, spending money, etc. The BPII"s are harder to diagnoses because the swings are so rapid and are mixed with periods of time when they function normally. They often don't seek treatment until they are hitting the more BPI like attributes, or extremes. And if they are not seen by a professional familiar with the disease, all the spectrums, and new break throughs in research, they are often misdiagnosed. (This was the case with both myself and my son)
Bipolar is a progressive disease. Meaning untreated, it can start out as BPII and move into BPI which is the more aggressive part of the disease including the physchotic feature not associated with the BPII's.
There are many spectrums of Bipolar. There is new research out monthly opening up more and more of the unique differences between them all.
To sum it up, BPI and BPII are not the only Bipolars.
However it is imperative if you are suffering and can recognize mixed episodes you discuss it with your doctor as soon as possible. Often medications need to be tweaked or added. Remember the disease is progressive.
Thankfully, as has been my own personal experience, my son's and those I work with as a support team and advocate, there are many new medications or combos, and other tools/treatments out today that are very effective and have less side effects than the old standby's most people use or know about.
Type 1 is more Mania
type 2 is more Depression , with some Mania , but Not All people will experience the Mania. Lots more Downs then Ups. And major mood swings , you need to contact you Doctor , and let him know what is going on so he can help , because you might be having the Mania , and that is Dangerous , please call the Dr.