Living with Bipolar II and Steps You Can Take to Actively Manage Symptoms

We’ve already covered the symptoms of bipolar I and what it’s like to live with that condition. When many people think of bipolar disorder, in general, bipolar I is likely what comes to mind.

However, it’s important to make sure you aren’t putting bipolar disorder in a box. Bipolar II might not be as widely known, but it’s important to understand what it looks like when you’re living with it so you can get the right diagnosis and start learning how to manage your symptoms effectively.

Let’s take a closer look at bipolar II, including steps you can take to improve your quality of life while living with it.

What is Bipolar II?

Bipolar II disorder is still a psychiatric condition identified by episodes of depression and hypomania. The main difference between bipolar I and bipolar II is the severity of these episodes.

When you’re living with bipolar I, you’re likely going to deal with extreme manic episodes. The hypomania experienced with bipolar II is less intense but can still cause a major boost of energy, a decreased need for sleep, and even physical symptoms like a racing heart.

The depressive episodes of bipolar II are also often less intense. You’re likely to experience sadness, a lack of motivation, or even a sense of hopelessness. These episodes can also create a rift in your sleeping habits. You might experience low energy, which causes you to want to sleep more often.

Like bipolar I, the length of time you experience your symptoms matters. A hypomanic episode lasting at least 4 days and a depressive episode lasting two weeks or more will typically allow for an official diagnosis of bipolar II.

Other Symptoms

Don’t take the words “less severe” lightly. Living with bipolar II isn’t easy just because it’s not as intense as bipolar I. In addition to the episodes discussed above, this condition also often comes with a variety of other symptoms, including racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, and even thoughts about death.

In fact, people with bipolar II disorder are at an increased risk of suicide. The daily disruption caused by negative thoughts can take a serious toll on your mental well-being and overall quality of life.

What Causes Bipolar II?

The potential causes of both bipolar I and bipolar II vary. There isn’t one triggering factor that contributes to the condition. However, experts believe that at least some components can be genetic. Bipolar disorder can run in families, and you may be more at risk if a close relative has it.

Other factors that might contribute to the condition include stress or even substance abuse. Anything that can trigger abnormal circuit activity in the brain could also trigger bipolar disorder.

What is the Treatment?

Again, don’t try to convince yourself that just because the severity of bipolar II is less, you don’t deserve help. Dealing with hypomanic and depressive episodes can have a negative impact on your quality of life, your mental well-being, and your relationships.

With that in mind, if you’re ready to get the help you deserve, one of the best things you can do is reach out to your doctor, a mental health professional, or both. Bipolar II is typically managed with a combination of medication and anxiety therapy. Most medications are designed to help stabilize your mood, while therapy can make symptom management easier and help you deal with triggers more effectively.

If these symptoms sound familiar or you’ve already been diagnosed with bipolar II disorder, reaching out for help is the first step in symptom management, along with establishing a healthy self-care routine. Let me walk with you on this journey as you see that bipolar II doesn’t have to dictate who you are forever. Contact me soon to set up an appointment.