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Bipolar II Depression

SNOMED Terms
 

  • Adjustment disorder with depressed mood

  • Adjustment disorder with disturbance of conduct

  • Adjustment disorder with mixed anxiety and depressed mood


Goals
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  • Begin a healthy grieving process around the loss.

  • Develop an awareness of how the avoidance of grieving has affected life and begin the healing process.

  • Complete the process of letting go of the lost significant other.

  • Resolve the loss and begin renewing old relationships and initiating new contacts with others.


​Behavioral Definitions
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  • Thoughts dominated by loss coupled with poor concentration, tearful spells, and confusion about the future.

  • Serial losses in life (i.e., deaths, divorces, jobs) that led to depression and discouragement.

  • Strong emotional response exhibited when losses are discussed.

  • Lack of appetite, weight loss, and/or insomnia as well as other depression signs that occurred since the loss.

  • Feelings of guilt that not enough was done for the lost significant other, or an unreasonable belief of having contributed to the death of the significant other.

  • Avoidance of talking on anything more than a superficial level about the loss.

  • Loss of a positive support network due to a geographic move.


Diagnoses
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  • Major Depressive Disorder, Single Episode

  • Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent

  • Bereavement

  • Adjustment Disorder With Depressed Mood

  • Adjustment Disorder With Disturbance of Conduct

  • Dysthymic Disorder

What is Bipolar II Depression? 
 

Bipolar 2 disorder is a type of mood disorder that is similar to bipolar 1 disorder but with less severe manic episodes, also known as hypomanic episodes. In bipolar 2 disorder, a person experiences episodes of depression and hypomania, which is a less severe form of mania. During a hypomanic episode, an individual may feel very energetic, talkative, and have an elevated mood, but is still able to function normally in their daily life. 
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Bipolar 2 disorder can be challenging to diagnose as individuals with the condition may initially seek treatment for depression, which is a common symptom of the disorder. Treatment for bipolar 2 disorder typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy, with the goal of managing symptoms and preventing future episodes.

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Symptoms of Bipolar II Depression​

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The symptoms of bipolar 2 disorder can vary from person to person, but generally involve cycles of hypomania and depression. Here are some common symptoms of each:

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Hypomania:


- Increased energy, activity, and restlessness
- Euphoric or irritable mood
- Racing thoughts or rapid speech
- Decreased need for sleep
- Increased self-confidence or grandiosity
- Increased risk-taking behavior
- Impulsivity or poor judgment

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Depression:


- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Significant weight gain or loss, or changes in appetite
- Insomnia or hypersomnia (sleeping too much)
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts of death or suicide

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People with bipolar 2 disorder may experience more depressive episodes than hypomanic episodes, and their symptoms may be severe enough to interfere with daily life. It's important to seek help from a mental health professional if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms.

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How does Bipolar II Depression affect your life?

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Here are some of the challenges people with Bipolar II depression experience:

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Depressive episodes: These episodes can cause feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. They can make it difficult to concentrate, sleep, and function at work or school.


Hypomanic episodes: While not as severe as manic episodes in Bipolar I, hypomania can still disrupt a person's life. During these episodes, someone might be more irritable, talkative, or take risks they wouldn't normally take.


Unstable relationships: The mood swings associated with Bipolar II can make it difficult to maintain healthy relationships with friends, family, and romantic partners.


Substance abuse: People with Bipolar II sometimes use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate their symptoms.


If you think you or someone you know might have Bipolar II depression, it's important to seek professional help.  A doctor or therapist can diagnose the condition and develop a treatment plan.

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