In Bipolar II disorder, manic episodes are typically present instead of full manic episodes.

In Bipolar II disorder, manic episodes are typically present instead of full manic episodes.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only depressive episodes
• D. Only manic episodes

Answer: (A)

Mania and hypomania differ mainly in level of impairment. In Bipolar II disorder, the pattern is hypomanic episodes plus major depressive episodes, not full manic episodes. A hypomanic episode involves elevated or irritable mood and increased energy for at least four days, with noticeable changes in functioning, but it does not cause the severe impairment, hospitalization, or psychotic features that define a manic episode. Full manic episodes are the hallmark of Bipolar I. So, Bipolar II does not feature manic episodes; it features hypomania with depression.

Mania and hypomania differ mainly in level of impairment. In Bipolar II disorder, the pattern is hypomanic episodes plus major depressive episodes, not full manic episodes. A hypomanic episode involves elevated or irritable mood and increased energy for at least four days, with noticeable changes in functioning, but it does not cause the severe impairment, hospitalization, or psychotic features that define a manic episode. Full manic episodes are the hallmark of Bipolar I. So, Bipolar II does not feature manic episodes; it features hypomania with depression.