How Does Bipolar Disorder II Differ from I?
Multiple Treatment Options Depending on Severity Of Disorder
Catherine Zeta-Jones's recent revelation of having been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder 2 has led a lot of people to wonder what the difference is between this variant and traditional Bipolar Disorder, which was once known as Manic Depression.
Also called Bipolar II Disorder, Bipolar Disorder 2 manifests itself with moods that go up but never reach the acute mania seen with one who has an "unquiet mind" as seen in Bipolar I Disorder. Additionally, Bipolar 2 Disorder may only happen once in live before the age of 50, compared to the manic depressive nature of Bipolar Disorder where a person could have several episodes in any given year. The marked difference between Bipolar Disorder I and II is that in the first, there are severely pronounced bouts of strange behavior, elevated and grandiose moods, and personality conflicts. People with this form of mental illness may behave in illegal manners and create havoc with the smallest provocation, then quickly move into severely depressive states that can affect everyone with whom they come into contact.
In the sense that Bipolar Disorder 2 is less of a problem, this could be considered true, but there are still real dangers to the people who have it and family members who may have to deal with the effects of hypomanic behaviors, mood swings, and energy swings. Because this condition is more difficult to diagnose, people who have it may be considered eccentric or unusual while living otherwise normal lives.
Bipolar Disorder 2 is most often treated with mood stabilizers such as Lithium, Depakote, Lamictal, and antiseizure medications like Gabitril, Neurontin, and Topamax. In more severe cases, antipsychotics like Abilify, Seroquel, and Zyprexa can be used, sometimes for preventative treatment. In contrast to other cases of depression, people subject to Bipolar Disorder I and II can experience a manic episode when treated with antidepressants like Prozac or Paxil..
Notes and Special Information
Special note: Always see a doctor if you suspect you or a loved one has bipolar disorder, whether it is the first or second kind.