Topic Tuesday // World Bipolar Day with Bipolar Australia // Tues 29th March, 7:00-8:30PM AEDT

Question 2: There are some key differences in diagnosis are really important to know, especially if you are questioning if you have Bipolar or supporting a loved one seeking a diagnosis.

a) What are the differences between Bipolar 1, Bipolar 2 and Bipolar 3?

The difference between Bipolar 1 and Bipolar 2 is the severity of the episodes. People with Bipolar one can experience full mania, and possibly psychosis (that is different to schizophrenia). You can also experience deep depression, even after having no symptoms. Even after 20 years, I had a very serious depressive episode that came out of nowhere.

People with Bipolar 2 experience depression but very rarely get to mania. They experience hypomania (hypo is greek for less than) which is a milder form of mania. Sometimes friends and family think you’re just a very happy person.

Bipolar 3 is also called cyclothymia, and is characterized by more even cycles. Every day you might see the world in a grey colour.

For me it was very similar to how it was described here earlier. Episodes of severe depression in early 20ies but no help received. Then life changing event, moving country, 20 years later Episodes of mania and depression rapidly changing and diagnosed with bipolar 1. Since 2018 things have been pretty calm until recently when I lost the ability to sleep and feeling manic. I am surprised as I have beenbtaking all my medications regularly. Why this sudden change in condition?

could you expand on Bipolar 3 please @SusanaBA , i have never formally been diagnosed so i don't know where i fit into the bipolar spectrum.

My psychiatrist says that I have Bipolar Affective Disorders and has previously said I have Bipolar 2. What is the difference between the 2?

Hi @Jacques, thanks for the question. Sorry I am a bit slow to respond.

It depends on the person and the situation. But listening and having open communication with them can help. Gently helping them realise they are are unwell, and encourage them to look after themselves. Try to help them minimise impulsive behaviours. Try not to get into any arguments. A calm environment is best.

Sleep is very important so helping them get regular sleep.

If their on medication, make sure they stay on medication.

Avoid alcohol, caffeine and other stimulates.

Try to get them to contact support services, psychologist, social workers etc.

If you think things are getting serious: contact an emergency helpline such as Lifeline 13 11 14, or call the Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467

Recovery is easier to talk about when you are well as you are able to develop strategies together that will help you through the more difficult times.

@Jacques talking about suicide is indeed really difficult 💛 It sounds like you've done your best to support your partner through the lows. I'm wondering what supports you have in place for yourself whilst caring for her?

I believe we may be sharing some resources for carers later tonight too 😊

Welcome @MDT and @HungryHippo !

@cloudcore Here is my response

a) What are the differences between Bipolar 1, Bipolar 2 and Bipolar 3?

Those living with Bipolar I disorder may experience both hypomania and mania episodes. Those living with bipolar II disorder will only experience hypomanic episodes.

People are diagnosed with Bipolar I disorder if they meet criteria for a manic episode lasting at least 7 days or with manic symptoms so severe that you need immediate hospital care.

People are diagnosed with Bipolar II disorder if they meet criteria for a hypomanic episode. The depressive episodes in people living with bipolar II disorder are often more frequent and lengthier than those occurring in bipolar I disorder. Therefore, bipolar II disorder is not simply a "milder" form, when compared to bipolar I disorder. Bipolar I disorder may experience depression 32% of the time, whilst those with bipolar II disorder experience depression 53% of the time.

Cyclothymia, also known as Bipolar III disorder, involves milder forms of hypomanic and depressive symptoms that are not as intense or long-lasting.

In hypomania, episode symptoms are the same as mania, but the duration is different (at least 4 days) and the episode is not severe enough to cause problems functioning, psychosis or require hospitalisation. However, hypomania may impair functioning for some people.

It’s important to be able to tell the difference between hypomania and mania when monitoring for symptoms. Hypomania is often overlooked because it is associated with positive experiences. A person with Bipolar II might only report with symptoms of depression and not see hypomania as a problem.

@cloudcore

b) We often hear questions about the differences between schizophrenia, bipolar and schizoaffective disorder, can you explain the differences?

This is a great question!

Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder share key symptoms which often leads to a misdiagnosis. With bipolar disorder, mood and psychotic symptoms are usually interrelated where the extremes of high and low mood lead to psychotic symptoms.

Psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia are more severe and persistent and are not only based on changes in mood.

It is more likely to be bipolar disorder when delusions or hallucinations occur exclusively during a major depressive or manic episode.

Bipolar disorder symptoms can be more focused on grand delusions of self-importance, but other research has shown no consistent findings in the differentiation of psychotic symptoms between schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder. So, that’s why it can be hard to tell the difference in some cases.

Schizoaffective disorder is when a mood episode and symptoms of schizophrenia occur together, and when psychotic symptoms persist two weeks after mood symptoms have stopped.

In order to make a diagnosis a comprehensive examination by trained medical professional is needed.