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Bipolar Disorder Explained: 3 Types of Bipolar Disorder (Part Two)

2. Bipolar Type 2 Symptoms

Bipolar disorder II manifests in hypomania symptoms and only lasts for four days.

A person with bipolar disorder type 2 will experience the symptoms of major depression and hypomania. The symptoms of hypomania are less severe and only last for four days rather than a week. It mostly happens to adults above 20 years. 

You’ll have a depressive phase where you don’t feel like doing things you used to enjoy. You’ll also tend to avoid pain and displeasure and seek utmost pleasure, prioritizing things that bring you joy over important things. 

You also sleep a lot or have insomnia, suicidal thoughts, and a reduced appetite. 

In no particular order, you’ll feel depressed, have hypomania symptoms, and return to a normal mental state (euthymia). 

3. Cyclothymia Symptoms 

Cyclothymia begins to develop from the early age of six! It eventually develops into bipolar I disorder or bipolar II disorder. 

A child or teen with cyclothymia will experience noticeable depressive symptoms of bipolar and mania symptoms but never to the extent that they qualify as mania or depression.

Children or teenagers with cyclothymia may exhibit the following depressive symptoms. They will:

• Complain of frequent headaches and stomach aches
• Mop around, be very sad, and cry a lot
• Say they feel worthless and guilty
• Eat a lot, or be very picky and eat too little
• Have suicidal thoughts
• Not be interested in playing or in anything

The manic symptoms could include:

• Lack of sleep and not feeling tired after insomnia
• Poor focus
• Rapid speech and a flight of ideas
• A short temper followed by anger outbursts
• Being overly happy
• Risky behavior

Causes of Bipolar Disorder

There is no single cause of bipolar disorder, and it’s often an interplay of different factors. Research shows that it may be related to your environment, genes, biological factors, brain structure, or physiological factors. It is also likely to occur if you suffer from the following disorders:

• Psychotic disorder
• Anxiety disorder
• Eating disorder
• Substance or alcohol use disorder

Here are some of the key factors that are believed to play a role:

Genetics and Bipolar Disorder

There is a significant genetic component to bipolar disorder. If a family member has bipolar disorder, you are at a higher risk of developing it. But having a relative who has bipolar disorder doesn’t guarantee that you will develop the disorder.

Brain Chemistry and Structure

Imbalances in certain neurotransmitters and chemicals that transmit signals in the brain have been linked to bipolar disorder. Neuroimaging studies have also shown structural and functional differences in the brains of individuals with bipolar disorder, particularly in areas involved in mood regulation.

Neurobiological Factors

Abnormalities in various brain circuits and systems, including those related to emotional processing, reward, and mood regulation, are thought to contribute to the development of bipolar disorder.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormones, such as those involved in the body’s stress response (e.g., cortisol), may also influence the development and course of bipolar disorder.

Environmental Factors

Stressful life events, traumatic experiences, and major life changes can trigger bipolar episodes in genetically predisposed individuals. Substance abuse, especially stimulants, and drugs that affect mood, can also worsen bipolar disorder symptoms.

Biological Clock and Sleep Habits

Disruptions in circadian rhythms and sleep patterns have been observed in individuals with bipolar disorder. These disturbances can affect mood and energy levels.

Psychological Factors

Psychological characteristics and coping strategies may contribute to the development of bipolar disorder. For example, high-stress levels, perfectionism, or certain personality traits could interact with genetic factors to increase susceptibility.

Medical Conditions

Some medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders or certain neurological conditions, may mimic or exacerbate the symptoms of bipolar disorder.

If you or someone close to you has bipolar disorder, remember:

“It’s treatable. It’s something you can live with and it doesn’t change your quality of life whatsoever.”

These were the words of Dennis Ombachi, and we second them.

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