Caution: This fact sheet provides a general overview of Bipolar I and Bipolar II disorders based on the DSM-5 (Fifth Edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). It is not intended for diagnostic purposes. Only a licensed mental health professional can diagnose or provide personalized treatment.
Bipolar II Disorder
Brief Description:
Bipolar II disorder is a mental health condition characterized by a recurring pattern of major depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes
A major depressive episode involves at least two weeks of symptoms such as deep sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, fatigue, changes in sleep or appetite, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and sometimes suicidal thoughts.
A hypomanic episode involves at least four consecutive days of elevated, expansive, or irritable mood with increased energy or activity. Symptoms can include decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, increased talkativeness, inflated self-esteem, distractibility, or impulsive behavior. Unlike full mania, hypomania is noticeable to others but does not cause severe impairment, hospitalization, or psychosis.
Core Symptoms:
- Hypomanic episodes: elevated mood, increased energy lasting at least 4 days, less severe than mania
- Major depressive episodes: sadness, hopelessness, fatigue
- Often longer depressive phases than hypomanic ones
Common Onset & Course:
Typically starts in late teens to early adulthood; chronic with alternating highs and lows.
Causes & Risk Factors:
- Family history of bipolar or mood disorders
- Neurochemical imbalances
- Stress or trauma
- Hormonal or environmental influences
Diagnosis Criteria:
At least one hypomanic episode and one major depressive episode; no full manic episodes.
Treatment Options:
- Mood stabilizers
- Antidepressants (often combined with mood stabilizers)
- Psychotherapy (CBT, interpersonal therapy)
- Routine, sleep hygiene, stress reduction
What It Feels Like:
Many describe the “high” of hypomania as productive or enjoyable, but the depressive episodes as deeply painful.
Important Facts to Know:
- Hypomania can sometimes escalate to mania or mixed states
- Depression tends to dominate the course
- Suicide risk is significant, especially during depressive phases
Resources & Support:n as a
American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th ed., American Psychiatric Publishing, 2013.
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. DBSA. https://www.dbsa.org. Accessed 4 Sept. 2025.
Mental Health America. Mental Health America. https://www.mhanational.org. Accessed 4 Sept. 2025.
National Institute of Mental Health. NIMH. https://www.nimh.nih.gov. Accessed 4 Sept. 2025.
National Alliance on Mental Illness. NAMI. https://www.nami.org. Accessed 4 Sept. 2025.
SAMHSA. “SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357).” Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline. Accessed 4 Sept.
