Bipolar 2 disorder is a mental health disorder in which a person has episodes of emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression). Bipolar 2 is different from other bipolar disorders because the manic episodes are not as high and do not last as long. This is called hypomania. People with bipolar 2 disorder usually go back and forth between hypomanic and depressive episodes.
What are the causes?
What increases the risk?
The cause of this condition is not known. However, certain factors make you more likely to have bipolar disorder, such as:
Having a family member with the disorder.
An imbalance of certain chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters).
Stress, such as a death, illness, or financial problems.
Certain conditions that affect …show more content…
Having another mental health disorder, such as:
Obsessive compulsive disorder.
Schizophrenia.
What are the signs or symptoms?
Symptoms of hypomania include:
Very high self-esteem or self-confidence.
Decreased need for sleep.
Unusual talkativeness or feeling a need to keep talking. Speech may be very fast. It may seem like you cannot stop talking.
Racing thoughts or constant talking, with quick shifts between topics that may or may not be related (flight of ideas).
Decreased ability to focus or concentrate.
Increased purposeful activity, such as work, studies, or social activity.
Increased nonproductive activity. This could be pacing, squirming and fidgeting, or finger and toe tapping.
Impulsive behavior and poor judgment. This may result in high-risk activities, such as having unprotected sex or spending a lot of money.
Symptoms of depression include:
Feeling sad, hopeless, or helpless.
Frequent or uncontrollable crying.
Lack of feeling or caring about anything.
Sleeping too much.
Moving more slowly than usual.
Not being able to enjoy things you used to enjoy.
Desire to be alone all the time.
Feeling guilty or worthless.
Lack of energy or motivation.
Trouble concentrating or remembering.
Trouble making