According to (Butcher., Mineka., & Hooley. 2010),
bipolar disorders can be defined as “mood disorders in which a person
experiences both manic and depressive episodes” (p. G-3). However, when
comparing Bipolar I Disorder and Bipolar II Disorder, there are subtle
differences and treatment needs. These are also as follows:
Bipolar I Disorder
- The client experiences at least one full blown manic
or mixed episode and depressive episodes
with no hypomanic episodes.
- A client with mania
exhibits an abnormal mood that may also be combined with an abnormal level of
energy or increased activity.
- Mania can include
psychotic symptoms such as paranoia, delusions or hallucinations.
- Mania does interfere
with daily functioning at a severe level.
- The client may have to
be hospitalized due to the severity of symptoms.
One example of a Bipolar
I diagnose (using modifiers) could be a 35 year old man named Robert who is
experiencing manic episodes that cause him to exhibit out-of-control abnormal
happiness. During these episodes he will burst out laughing at serious events
like funerals or hospital visits with friends. He runs up and down the street
late at night screaming that he loves his neighbors and also tries to kiss
every person that he sees in a grocery store whether he knows them or not. This
disorder may also be causing a severe impact on loved ones and some people
within his community. This is because his abnormal behavior may cause
embarrassment for family members and/or fear among those who don’t know and
understand him. One other major thing that could occur during these episodes is
the risk of harm to himself or others. Since, this may be the case I also
believe that this may be the most difficult form to live with.
Bipolar II Disorder
- The client experiences at least one hypomanic
episode and depressive episode with no full blown manic or mixed episodes.
- A client with hypomania
exhibits a sustained mood which may become heightened, superior or irritable.
- Hypomania does not
include psychotic symptoms but delusions or hallucinations may still be
exhibited during depressive episodes.
- Hypomania does not
interfere with daily functioning at such a severe level.
- The client does not
have to be hospitalized due the severity of symptoms.
One example of a Bipolar
II diagnose (using modifiers) could be a 40 year old man named William who is
experiencing hypomanic episodes that make him extremely cheerful. When these
occur, he only needs half of the sleep that he normally gets, he speaks more
rapidly than normal and he spends more money than normal. This disorder may
also cause a severe impact on loved ones and other people within his community.
This is because his behavior could cause loss of sleep for other family
members, lack of proper communication and possible financial hardship due to
increased spending.
Even though these disorders are different, treatment
options may be similar and depend on the severity of each case. General
treatment can also include a combination of psychotherapy, medication,
hospitalization and lifestyle changes. However, one major difference is that
bipolar I clients may be prescribed mood stabilizers, while bipolar II clients
may be prescribed antidepressants.
Reference:
Butcher, J. N., Mineka, S., & Hooley,
J. M. (2010). Abnormal
Psychology (14th Ed.).
Boston, MA. Allyn & Bacon, Pearson Higher Education.
