Hypomania
Hypomania is a mood episode that mostly people with type II bipolar disorder experience (but people with type I can experience it too) similar to mania. The difference between mania and hypomania is that in hypomania, the individual does not require hospitalization and there are never any psychotic features present. Individuals in a hypomanic episode typically experience:
Increase in energy
Decreased sleep
Pressured speech
Increase in goal-oriented activity
Irritability
Elevated mood
Psychomotor agitation
Grandiosity
Disinhibition and focus on instant gratification that can result in spending sprees or risky sexual behaviour
It is important to note that these changes in mood and behaviour are enough to draw the attention of others, especially family and friends. It is important that you have a friend or family member that can act as your “life guard”….someone to tell you when they notice these behaviours, and someone who you trust enough to take their word on it.
Mixed Episode
A mood episode that includes features of mania/hypomania and depression simultaneously.
Diagnostic Criteria for the Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder
Type I: One or more manic episodes. A depressive or hypomanic episode is not required for diagnosis, but it frequently occurs.
Type II: One or more hypomanic episodes and one or more major depressive episodes.
Cyclothymia: History of hypomanic episodes with periods of depression that do not meet criteria for major depressive episodes. Low-grade cycling of mood which appears to the observer as a personality trait, and interferes with functioning.
BD NOS (not otherwise specified): Catchall category. Diagnosed when the disorder does not fall within a specific subtype.
Types of Cycling
Rapid cycling: Four + episodes per year.
Ultra rapid cycling: Several distinct episodes within a week
Ultra radiant cycling: multiple episodes within the same day