What Is Bipolar 1?

Bipolar I disorder (pronounced "bipolar one" and also known as manic-depressive disorder or manic depression) is a form of mental illness. A person affected by bipolar I disorder has had at least one manic episode in their life.

What is the difference between bipolar 1 and 2?

The main difference between bipolar 1 and bipolar 2 disorders lies in the severity of the manic episodes caused by each type. A person with bipolar 1 will experience a full manic episode, while a person with bipolar 2 will experience only a hypomanic episode (a period that's less severe than a full manic episode).

Is bipolar 1 or 2 worse?

The manic episodes of bipolar 1 are typically worse than the hypomanic episodes of bipolar 2. Bipolar disorders are a group of mental disorders that cause dramatic changes in a person's mood, activity level, and ability to function. People who have bipolar disorders have emotional states that are extreme and intense.

Sarah Jenkins

Sarah Jenkins

Senior Technology Editor & AI Specialist

Sarah Jenkins is a veteran tech journalist with over 12 years of experience covering artificial intelligence, mobile innovations, and digital ethics. Her insights have appeared in leading technology publications worldwide.