What is Bipolar II ?

There is another type of Bipolar Disorder called Bipolar II Disorder. Traditional Bipolar Disorder consists of extreme highs and lows. Bipolar II does not have the same level of mania that Bipolar Disorder has. Those with Bipolar II Disorder experience milder episodes of mania, called hypomania. Hypomanic individuals do not become openly delusional or require hospitalization. The hypomanic individual typically presents with increased energy, heightened or irritable mood, increased talkativeness, decreased need for sleep, increased social or sexual activity, and increased spending or work-related activities. Some people with Bipolar II get most of their creative work done in their hypomanic periods, knowing that they have only so much time before they return to depression. Bipolar II Disorder is associated with significant social and vocational disability and an increased risk of suicide.