Defining Subtypes of Bipolar Disorders
Dr. Danish frequently works with patients experiencing various mood disorders, including bipolar disorders and schizoaffective disorder, bipolar subtype. This handout is based on research and aims to provide a basic understanding of these conditions and how they are categorized.
Bipolar I Disorder
Bipolar I disorder is characterized by at least one manic episode that lasts for at least 7 days, or requires hospitalization. Symptoms of mania of include many of the following:
Intense enthusiasm, happiness, or excitement
Rapid speech
Anger, restlessness, or irritability
Increased energy
Decreased need for sleep and difficulty sleeping
Racing thoughts
Poor concentration
Impulsive and reckless behavior, such as excessive substance use or sexual acting out
Excessive pleasure-seeking behaviors
These manic episodes are severe and significantly impact daily functioning. Depressive episodes may also occur, but the presence of a manic episode is the defining feature.
Bipolar II Disorder
Bipolar II disorder involves at least one hypomanic episode and one major depressive episode. Hypomania is a less severe form of mania and does not typically require hospitalization. Symptoms include the following, and are considered a marked change from baseline functioning:
Elevated mood
Increased activity or energy
Decreased need for sleep
Individuals with bipolar II often seek treatment for depressive episodes, which can be severe and may not respond well to standard treatments.
Bipolar 3 Disorder
Bipolar 3 Disorder, often less discussed, refers to bipolar symptoms that emerge as a result of medication or substance use. While not a valid DSM diagnosis, identifying this type is vital as it requires different treatment strategies. Symptoms may include manic and/or hypomanic episodes that are brought on by medication or substance use. Examples of medications that can induce mania or hypomania are steroids, amphetamines / stimulants for ADHD, and antidepressants.
Recognizing Bipolar 3 Disorder is crucial for developing appropriate treatment plans that address the underlying causes, such as avoiding certain medications or managing substance use.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Cyclothymic disorder is characterized by chronic fluctuations between hypomanic and depressive symptoms that do not meet the full criteria for hypomanic or major depressive episodes. These mood swings occur over at least two years and can affect daily functioning.
Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Subtype
Schizoaffective disorder, bipolar subtype, is a complex condition that includes symptoms of both schizophrenia and mood disorders. Key features include:
Mood episodes (mania or depression) combined with symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.
Psychotic symptoms that occur independently of mood episodes, distinguishing it from bipolar disorder with psychotic features.
To be diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, bipolar subtype, a person must experience:
At least two weeks of psychotic symptoms without mood symptoms
Mood symptoms for the majority of the illness duration
Symptoms that are not attributable to substance use or another medical condition.
Getting in Touch with Dr. Danish and his Team
At Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, we take pride in our ability to practice the most subtle nuances of psychiatry, which is an inherently subjective field full of misdiagnoses and lazy and inaccurate assessment techniques. We want to provide the level of care we would want for our own family members. Our holistic and integrative approach ensures that we consider all aspects of our patients' well-being in developing personalized treatment plans. If you or a loved one are seeking support for PDA or similar conditions, please text or call 610-999-6414 to learn how we can help.
For more on this topic and related subjects, check out these blogs:
Learn about the off-label use of pramipexole in treating unipolar and bipolar depression.
