Diagnosing Bipolar 2 Disorder

Diagnostic Criteria for Bipolar 2

Bipolar 2 disorder does not include full manic or mixed episodes, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1

Organize clinical information using a life chart to characterize course of illness, patterns of episodes, severity, and treatment response, as recommended by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is not the primary source, however Praxis Medical Insights suggests this approach 2
Psychiatric assessments should include specific screening questions for bipolar disorder, focusing on distinct periods of mood changes with associated sleep disturbances and psychomotor activation, according to Praxis Medical Insights 2
Pay special attention to hallmark hypomanic symptoms: grandiosity, psychomotor agitation, and reckless behavior, as suggested by Praxis Medical Insights 2

Manic symptoms must be differentiated from symptoms of other common disorders such as ADHD, disruptive behavior disorders, and PTSD, according to Praxis Medical Insights 2
Manic grandiosity and irritability present as marked changes in the individual's mental state, rather than reactions to situations or temperamental traits, as noted by Praxis Medical Insights 2

A multimodal treatment approach combining psychopharmacology with adjunctive psychosocial therapies is indicated, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 3
Psychoeducational therapy should provide information about symptoms, course, treatment options, impact on functioning, and heritability, as recommended by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 3
Relapse prevention education should focus on medication compliance, recognition of emergent symptoms, and factors that precipitate relapse, such as sleep deprivation and substance abuse, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 3
Family-focused therapy and interpersonal/social rhythm therapy have shown benefit in adults with bipolar disorder, as noted by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 3