Definition:
Bipolar disorder is considered a mood disorder, and there are two types of bipolar disorders. These are described as bipolar I disorder and bipolar II disorder.
In bipolar I disorder, a person has experienced one or more manic episodes. In most cases of bipolar I, episodes of major depression are a central aspect of the overall course of the illness.
In bipolar II disorder, hypomanic episodes have been experienced but not manic episodes. In addition, to be diagnosed with bipolar II disorder, a person needs to have also experienced a major depressive episode.
As with any disorder, in order to be diagnosed with bipolar I or II disorder, the symptoms also need to greatly interfere with aspects of a person's life.
Also Known As: manic-depression
