Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II: What Caregivers Need to Know
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings. There are two types: Bipolar I and Bipolar II. If you’re caring for someone with bipolar disorder, knowing the differences and when to seek help is essential.
What’s the Difference Between Bipolar I and II?
Bipolar I: Involves severe manic episodes (feeling overly excited or out of control) that may require hospitalization. These manic episodes are followed by periods of deep depression.
Bipolar II: Includes hypomania (milder manic episodes) and periods of deep depression. The manic symptoms in Bipolar II are less intense than those in Bipolar I.
When Do Symptoms Start?
For men, symptoms usually start in the late teens or early 20s.
For women, symptoms might begin in their early to mid-20s.
How to Recognize Breakthrough Symptoms
Even when someone is being treated for bipolar disorder, breakthrough symptoms can happen. Here’s what to watch for:
Mania: Increased energy, less sleep, racing thoughts, impulsive decisions, irritability, or feeling overly excited.
Depression: Extreme sadness, low energy, withdrawing from friends, or even thoughts of self-harm.
If you see these signs, it’s important to get professional help quickly. Adjusting treatment early can help prevent symptoms from getting worse.
Symptoms of Mania and Extreme Mood Swings
Mania can be a challenging symptom of bipolar disorder, especially for caregivers to identify and manage. Here’s what mania can look like:
High energy: The person may seem unusually excited, talk fast, or have racing thoughts.
Risky behavior: Spending too much money, taking unnecessary risks, or engaging in unsafe activities.
Little sleep: They may feel fine with only a few hours of sleep but still seem full of energy.
Irritability: Mania isn’t always about feeling good; it can also make someone easily frustrated or angry.
Extreme mood swings in bipolar disorder refer to the unpredictable shifts between feeling very high (manic or hypomanic) and very low (depressed). These mood changes can disrupt daily life, work, and relationships.
What Happens If Someone Avoids Treatment or Skips Medication?
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, and without proper treatment, symptoms can get worse over time. Here’s what can happen if someone doesn’t take their medication regularly or avoids treatment altogether:
Worsening symptoms: Mania and depression may become more intense and happen more often without treatment.
Increased risk of harmful behaviors: Without managing manic or depressive episodes, individuals may engage in risky behavior, harm themselves, or have suicidal thoughts.
Strain on relationships: Extreme mood swings can damage friendships, family relationships, and even work performance.
Longer recovery time: Once symptoms spiral out of control, it takes longer to stabilize and get back to feeling balanced.
Regular treatment, including medication and therapy, is essential for managing symptoms and leading a stable, fulfilling life.
How to Support Your Loved One
Encourage treatment: Remind them to take their medications and keep their therapy appointments.
Create routines: Help maintain a regular sleep schedule, meals, and activities.
Stay aware of symptoms: Keep an eye out for signs of mood changes and get help early if needed.
Offer emotional support: Be there to listen and offer comfort without judgment.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to reach out to a healthcare provider:
Severe mood swings
Risky behavior
Withdrawal from friends or family
Thoughts of self-harm or hopelessness
At Jersey Medical Care, we offer compassionate, expert care for individuals living with bipolar disorder. If you or a loved one needs help managing bipolar disorder, visit our website or contact us today for support.