How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?
Bipolar disorder usually lasts a lifetime. Episodes of mania and depression typically
come back over time. Between episodes, many people with bipolar disorder are
free of symptoms, but some people may have lingering symptoms.
Doctors diagnose bipolar disorder using guidelines from the Diagnostic and
Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). To be diagnosed with bipolar
disorder, the symptoms must be a major change from your normal mood or
behavior. There are four basic types of bipolar disorder:
1. Bipolar I Disorder—defined by manic or mixed episodes that last at least seven
days, or by manic symptoms that are so severe that the person needs immediate
hospital care. Usually, depressive episodes occur as well, typically lasting at
least 2 weeks.
2. Bipolar II Disorder—defined by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic
episodes, but no full-blown manic or mixed episodes.
3. Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (BP-NOS)—diagnosed when symptoms
of the illness exist but do not meet diagnostic criteria for either bipolar I
or II. However, the symptoms are clearly out of the person’s normal range of
behavior.
4. Cyclothymic Disorder, or Cyclothymia—a mild form of bipolar disorder.
People with cyclothymia have episodes of hypomania as well as mild depression
for at least 2 years. However, the symptoms do not meet the diagnostic
requirements for any other type of bipolar disorder.