In diagnosing Bipolar Disorder or any mental disorder, doctors usually follow the guidelines set by the .Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. (DSM). According to this manual, there are four Types Of Bipolar Disorder. Since this disorder lasts a lifetime, episodes of depression and mania will return again on a recurring basis (a cyclical disease). There may be bipolar individuals who are free of symptoms between these episodes whereas others may have lingering symptoms. Therefore, it is crucial for proper diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder to prevent a mistaken diagnosis of another disorder.

The DSM lists the Types Of Bipolar as: Bipolar I Disorder; Bipolar Disorder II; Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (BP-NOS); and Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia). However, some people can be diagnosed with something known as rapid-cycling Bipolar Disorder which denotes four or more episodes of major depression, mania, hypomania, or mixed symptoms within a year. There are some who will experience more than one episode in a week or even within one day. The rapid cycling appears to be more common in those who have a more severe Bipolar Disorder. Also, it seems more common in individuals who have had their first episode of Bipolar Disorder at a younger age. Sometimes, these individuals will have had their first episode during their mid to late teen years. Furthermore, women experience more cycling episodes than men.

Bipolar I Disorder is defined mainly by the manic or mixed episodes which last for at least seven days. The bipolar individual may have such severe manic symptoms that he or she may need immediate hospitalization. Additionally, the individual may also experience depressive episodes of at least two weeks. Both depression and mania symptoms involve a significant change from the individual.s normal behavior.

Bipolar II Disorder is characterized by a pattern of depressive episodes which interchange with hypomanic episodes; however, the manic or mixed episodes will not be as highly developed as in other Types of Bipolar. A hypomanic episode is much like mania only not as severe. Its symptoms are also much like the symptoms of mania: Racing thoughts and increased activity; less need for sleep; feelings of grandiosity; and elevated mood. Furthermore, the hypomanic episode does not obviously interfere with the individual.s work, daily routines or family life whereas manic episodes do. Mixed episodes denote a combination of symptoms of both depression and mania. One such example is when a bipolar person may be showing all the frenetic energy of mania, yet also suffers with the despairing thoughts of depression.

Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified or BP-NOS becomes the diagnosis when the disorder.s symptoms do not meet the criteria necessary to diagnose either Bipolar I or II. One reason may be that the symptoms do not last long enough or there may be too few symptoms manifested. Yet, symptoms of the disease are beyond the individual.s normal routine and behavior range.

Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia) is a Bipolar Type which is a milder form of the disorder. Those who have this form of Bipolar Disorder will have hypomania episodes which rotate with mild depression episodes for a period of at least two years. These symptoms of Cyclothymic Disorder will not qualify as meeting the diagnostic criteria for other Types Of Bipolar, which is the reason it is listed in its own category.

Bipolar Disorder has many symptoms in common with other mental disorders (such as anxiety disorders and schizophrenia) which further complicate diagnosis. If the disorder is not diagnosed correctly, the disease can worsen and episodes become more severe. Therefore, it is important for patients to share their complete medical history and all the symptoms, feelings, and behaviors that have interfered with their daily lives, routines, and relationships. In knowing the different Types of Bipolar, associated symptoms, and the medical history of the patient, the medical professional will give a proper diagnosis.

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