Bipolar 2

Bipolar 2: Life Can Be Productive And Full.

Bipolar 2 is different from Bipolar disorder in that it does not have the extreme highs and lows of Bipolar disorder. Patients who suffer with bipolar 2 have episodes that are milder and do not usually become delusional or require hospitalization. Those who suffer with bipolar 2 do have increased energy, talk much more, are often in an irritable mood, have a lower need for sleep, have a stronger need to socialize and/or to have sex, and are usually workaholics or shopaholics. With bipolar 2, the patient usually has an increased need to work, is socially disabled most of the time and has a higher tendency toward suicide. Most patients with bipolar 2 suffer from depression and hypomania. Hypomania in conjunction with bipolar 2 can be seen in its symptoms such as an inflated self-esteem, thoughts that constantly race, an increase in drive, risky behavior and a decreased need for sleep.

The good aspects of bipolar 2 are: an improvement in performance, an increase in energy, feeling more enthusiastic, feeling and acting more creatively and an improvement in one's performance. The bad aspects of bipolar 2 are: poor judgment, unable to concentrate, being agitated much of the time and being unaware of the needs and concerns of others. However, some bipolar patients may be overly sensitive to others, and feel that others are rejecting them when they are not. Medications that are often used to help those suffering from this disorder are: lithium and Tegretol-Low. In addition, those who suffer from bipolar 2 do not usually have psychotic symptoms and therefore do not need antipsychotic medications.

Because each patient is different, it usually takes time and patience to find the right doses for patients of bipolar 2. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, along with medication, seems to benefit and lessen the symptoms of the bipolar patient. If you know of someone who suffers from bipolar 2, or if you are suffering from it, do not despair, for there are medications and behavior therapy that can help. In addition, research has been done that suggests if you are bipolar 2 or know of someone who is, be careful with anti-depressants, check out non-medication treatment ideas such as keeping a daily schedule, keep alcohol at a minimum, perform regular exercise, learn about the disease, seek help from a family physician when needed and possibly enter light therapy, upon a physician guidance and approval.