Bipolar Type 1
Overview
Bipolar type 1 is a subtype of bipolar disorder characterized by the presence of at least one episode of mania or mixed state. A manic episode is a period of time during which a person experiences an unusually elevated, euphoric, or irritable mood, along with symptoms such as increased energy and activity levels, racing thoughts, and impaired judgment. The manic episode is often accompanied by psychotic symptoms such as paranoia or even full-blown psychosis, in which the individual loses touch with reality. A mixed state could be summarized as a period of mania occurring during a period of depression. Often, a manic episode is preceded by a milder form of elevated mood called hypomania. In addition, people with bipolar type 1 may also experience mild and major depression as part of their mood cycles. What distinguishes bipolar type 1 from type 2 is the presence of mania and psychotic symptoms. Below, you can learn more about the characteristics associated with these different mood states. Below you can learn more about the mood states experienced by individuals living with bipolar type 1, namely: minor depression, major depression, hypomania, mania, and psychosis.
Bipolar Type 1 Mood Cycle Example
Mania
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Hypomania
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Euthymia
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Minor Depression
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Major Depression
Minor depression
Minor depression is a type of depression that is less severe than major depression. It is characterized by a low mood that lasts at least two weeks and is accompanied by at least two other symptoms of depression, such as difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite or sleep, low energy, low self-esteem, and feelings of hopelessness.
Major depression
Major depression, on the other hand, is a more severe form of depression characterized by persistent low mood and at least five other symptoms of depression, such as changes in appetite or sleep, difficulty concentrating, low energy, low self-esteem, and feelings of hopelessness. Major depression can also cause physical symptoms, such as fatigue, body aches, and weight changes.
Hypomania
Hypomania, a mild form of abnormal mood, is characterized by elevated or irritable mood, increased energy and activity levels, and a decreased need for sleep. People who experience hypomania may be more productive than usual, have racing thoughts, be more talkative, and engage in risky or impulsive behavior. However, hypomania typically does not cause significant disruption in daily life and may even be experienced as a pleasant state.
Mania
Mania is a more severe form of hypomania characterized by an intense and highly elevated or irritable mood, increased energy and activity levels, and a reduced or absent need for sleep. People experiencing mania may have grandiose thoughts, be extremely talkative, engage in risky or impulsive behavior, and have difficulty concentrating or making decisions. Mania also causes significant disruptions in daily life, including problems at work or school and strained relationships with friends and family. Mania is also associated with an increased risk of psychosis or psychotic symptoms, such as extreme paranoia or hallucinations.
Psychosis
A psychotic episode in a person with bipolar disorder is a period during which the person experiences hallucinations or delusions. Hallucinations are false perceptions that occur without any external stimulus, such as hearing voices or seeing things that are not actually there. Delusions are false beliefs that are not based in reality, such as believing that one is being followed or persecuted. During a psychotic episode, a person with bipolar disorder may behave in ways that are out of character or inconsistent with their usual functioning. They may have irrational or bizarre thoughts or behaviors and be unable to distinguish between what is real and what is not. For example, a person experiencing a psychotic episode may become agitated or aggressive, engage in reckless or dangerous behavior, or have difficulty communicating or interacting with others. They may also have symptoms of mania or depression, and sometimes both at the same time, called a mixed episode.
