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When your moods swing from high energy to low, or when you’re overwhelmed by emotions that are hard to control, you might start to wonder what’s happening. New Directions Mental Health is here to help you better understand your experience and connect you with compassionate, evidence-based support.
For those living in Southwestern Pennsylvania, our therapy and psychiatric medication management services offer whole-person and accessible bipolar disorder treatment options that meet you where you are. Bipolar II disorder is often misunderstood or overlooked, but identifying the signs is a crucial first step toward effective management and care.
What is bipolar II disorder?
Bipolar II disorder is a type of mood disorder that causes shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. While everyone experiences ups and downs, people with bipolar II disorder often face emotional states that are more intense, longer-lasting, and disruptive to their daily lives.
The key difference between bipolar I and bipolar II lies in the type of mood episodes experienced. In bipolar I, a person experiences full manic episodes. In bipolar II, the highs—called hypomanic episodes—are less extreme, but the depressive episodes can be just as deep, or even more severe. Knowing the difference between bipolar I and II can help you or a loved one find the right support and care.
Common bipolar II disorder symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of bipolar II disorder can be challenging, as they often resemble those of other conditions. Here are the two main types of episodes associated with bipolar II disorder and their most common symptoms:
Hypomanic symptoms
Hypomania is a period of elevated or irritable mood that lasts at least four days. It can feel good at first—like having more energy or needing less sleep—but it can still impact relationships, judgment, and focus.
Signs of hypomania include:
- Feeling unusually energetic or upbeat
- Talking more or faster than usual
- Feeling restless or easily distracted
- Increased confidence or risky behavior (like spending too much money or driving too fast)
- Needing much less sleep but still feeling rested
Hypomania may not seem concerning at first, but it can escalate or lead to consequences once the episode passes.
Depressive symptoms
Depression in bipolar II can be intense and long-lasting. These episodes can deeply impact your ability to enjoy life or care for your daily needs.
Signs of a depressive episode include:
- Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless most of the day
- Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Feeling tired or without energy
- Thoughts of death or suicide
If you or someone you love is experiencing any of these symptoms, help is available.
Bipolar 1 vs. 2: What’s the difference?
Bipolar I and II share similar depressive symptoms, but the main difference is in the manic episodes. Bipolar I includes at least one full manic episode, which may require hospitalization or lead to psychosis. Bipolar II is characterized by at least one hypomanic episode and one major depressive episode, without ever progressing to full mania.
Some people might not even realize they’re experiencing hypomania, which is why bipolar II disorder symptoms often go undiagnosed. That’s why working with a trained mental health professional is so important.
Getting support for bipolar II disorder
If you or someone you care about is experiencing these symptoms, know you are not alone. Support is available, and our compassionate providers are here to help you take the next step. New Directions Mental Health’s therapy and psychiatric services focus on whole-person care. That means we look at your full picture—your emotions, your daily life, and your goals—to build a care plan that makes sense for you.
Treatment for bipolar II disorder may include:
- Therapy with a licensed mental health provider
- Medication management with a psychiatric provider
- Education on mood tracking and self-care tools
- Support for co-occurring conditions like anxiety or trauma
Our team offers a variety of approaches and works alongside you to find what’s most helpful. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or exploring your symptoms for the first time, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
New Directions Mental Health offers support for managing bipolar II disorder
You and your loved ones don’t have to navigate bipolar II disorder alone. We offer compassionate, evidence-based support to help manage mood changes, build stability, and regain a sense of balance. Call us today at 724.374.7414 to learn more about your care options or to get started.
For new clients, please click here to schedule an appointment. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.