Bipolar 2 Treatment in Florida

What Is Bipolar 2 Disorder?

Bipolar type 2 disorder, or bipolar type II disorder, is a mental illness that involves periods of depression and hypomania, a less severe form of mania common in bipolar disorder type 1. Individuals with this bipolar type typically experience less intense highs (hypomania) and more prolonged or frequent depressive episodes.

What Age Does Bipolar 2 Disorder Start?

Bipolar 2 disorder can begin at any age but is most often diagnosed in the teenage years or early 20s. Research suggests that everyone with bipolar 2 disorder develops it before age 50.

Symptoms of Bipolar 2 Disorder

Depressive episodes may last several weeks and often include:

• Feelings of sadness.
• Loss of interest in activities or hobbies.
• Changes in appetite.
• Changes in sleep.
• Difficulty concentrating.

Hypomanic episodes are less severe than manic episodes in bipolar type 1 and may include:

• Excessive talking.
• Racing thoughts.
• Impulsivity.
• Inflated self-confidence.

Additional bipolar 2 disorder symptoms may include:

• Decreased need for sleep.
• Excessive spending.
• Hypersexuality.
• Increased energy (hyperactivity).
• Substance misuse.

Causes of Bipolar 2 Disorder

The cause of bipolar 2 disorder is currently unknown. However, medical professionals agree it is likely a combination of the following biological and environmental factors:

• Family history (e.g., parent or sibling) of bipolar disorder.
• Imbalanced brain chemicals (e.g., norepinephrine and serotonin).
• Stressful life events.
• Substance misuse.

Diagnosis of Bipolar 2 Disorder

Bipolar 2 disorder can sometimes be confused with a major depressive disorder. Seeking evaluation from a qualified mental health or medical professional is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Bipolar 2 Disorder Diagnostic Criteria

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), the diagnostic criteria for bipolar 2 disorder include:

• A hypomanic episode, characterized by a consistent period of abnormally elevated mood and increased energy levels lasting four consecutive days or longer.
• A depressive episode, characterized by two or more weeks of depressive symptoms.
• There must be no history of a manic episode.
• Symptoms must cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

Test for Bipolar 2 Disorder

A screening test for bipolar 2 disorder can help determine if you need to seek professional support and treatment. However, these tools cannot definitively diagnose bipolar disorder.

If you screen positive on a bipolar disorder test, consult a licensed mental health professional at Beach House Center for Recovery for an accurate assessment and diagnosis. Commonly used screening tools include:

• Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) to help distinguish bipolar disorder from other mood disturbances.
• Rapid Mood Screener (RMS) to screen for manic symptoms and depressive characteristics.

Challenges in Diagnosing Bipolar 2 Disorder

Bipolar 2 Disorder can be difficult to differentiate from conditions like major depressive disorder due to frequent depressive episodes and the absence of full mania. Furthermore, many people with type 2 bipolar disease often have co-occurring mental health issues or medical conditions, which may contribute to difficulty getting the right diagnosis. These conditions may include an anxiety disorder, an eating disorder, or a substance use disorder.

Treatment for Bipolar 2 Disorder

Typical treatment for bipolar 2 disorder focuses on managing hypomanic and depressive episodes to promote stability and improve quality of life.  A combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes is often recommended and may include:

• Medications (e.g., mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and antipsychotics) to help prevent mood swings.
• Psychotherapy (e.g., talk therapy) to address negative thought patterns, emotional regulation, and coping strategies. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is often a preferred method. Additional talk therapy sessions, like support groups, may also be recommended.
• Lifestyle modifications (e.g., prioritizing sleep, exercise, and a healthy diet) to help alleviate depressive symptoms and support mood stability.

It is common for those with bipolar disorder to also struggle with substance misuse. Participation in a treatment program can help you overcome your addiction and begin a path toward lasting recovery.

Why Choose Beach House Center for Recovery for Bipolar 2 Disorder Treatment

At Beach House Center for Recovery, we provide compassionate, integrated mental health and substance use disorder treatment in Florida to ensure you get the exact care you need.

Our skilled team is ready to help you manage your symptoms and support any co-occurring conditions. Contact our caring admissions counselors for more information and to start your recovery journey.