Types of Bipolar Disorder: Know the Signs, Understand the Differences at Lyte Psychiatry

(Best Psychiatrist and Therapist Near You — Affordable Adults and Adolescents Therapist and Psychiatrist Near You | Dallas & Arlington, TX)

Bipolar disorder is more than mood swings—it’s a complex mood disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and functions. But here’s something many people don’t know: there’s more than one type of bipolar disorder, and understanding the differences is key to getting the right care.

At Lyte Psychiatry, we’re committed to helping individuals and families in Dallas & Arlington, TX recognize the signs, understand the variations, and get the support they need to manage bipolar disorder with confidence.

🧠 According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), bipolar disorder affects about 4.4% of U.S. adults at some point in their lives—and many go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years.

The 3 Main Types of Bipolar Disorder

1. Bipolar I Disorder

This type includes at least one full manic episode, which may be intense enough to require hospitalization. Depressive episodes often follow.

Manic symptoms may include:

⚠️ Extremely elevated or irritable mood

⚠️ Racing thoughts or rapid speech

⚠️ Risky behavior or impulsive decisions

⚠️ Decreased need for sleep

⚠️ Grandiosity or inflated self-esteem

Depressive episodes often include fatigue, hopelessness, and withdrawal.

2. Bipolar II Disorder

Involves hypomania (a milder form of mania) and major depressive episodes. Hypomania doesn’t typically cause major disruption but is still noticeable.

Hypomania may look like:

⚠️ Increased energy or activity

⚠️ Decreased need for sleep

⚠️ Boost in creativity or productivity

⚠️ Irritability or restlessness

This type is often misdiagnosed as depression since hypomania can be harder to recognize.

3. Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia)

This involves frequent mood fluctuations with periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms, but not severe enough to meet full diagnostic criteria for Bipolar I or II.

Symptoms must last:

At least 2 years in adults

At least 1 year in children/adolescents

These ups and downs may feel like a constant emotional rollercoaster—but they’re real, valid, and treatable.

What All Types Have in Common

Though each type presents differently, they all share:

✅ Mood instability (alternating highs and lows)

✅ Disruption in daily life (relationships, work, academics)

✅ Increased risk of anxiety, ADHD, and substance use

✅ Periods of “normal” mood in between episodes

Early diagnosis and proper treatment can dramatically improve quality of life.

Seek Professional Help and Schedule an Appointment with Lyte Psychiatry (Affordable Therapist and Psychiatrist Near You) Located in Dallas & Arlington, TX

You’re not just “moody.” You’re not “overreacting.” And you’re definitely not alone. If you or someone you love is experiencing mood shifts, impulsivity, or unexplained emotional changes—it could be more than just stress.

At Lyte Psychiatry, we provide expert care rooted in understanding, not judgment.

💡 Clarity starts with a conversation. 🧠 Let’s figure this out, together. 📍 Serving the Dallas & Arlington communities with accessible, affordable support.

👉 Book your bipolar evaluation or consultation with Lyte Psychiatry today. Click Here

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Call us if you have questions at 469-733-0848

FAQ – Understanding Bipolar Disorder

Q: How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?

A: Through a combination of clinical interviews, behavioral history, mood tracking, and in some cases, collaboration with family or other providers.

Q: Can bipolar disorder be treated without medication?

A: While therapy is essential, most people with bipolar disorder benefit from a medication plan. We tailor every approach to the individual’s needs.

Q: Can teens have bipolar disorder?

A: Yes—symptoms often appear during adolescence, though diagnosis can be tricky. We offer age-appropriate assessments and care for teens and their families.

Q: What’s the difference between bipolar disorder and depression?

A: Bipolar includes both depressive episodes and periods of elevated or irritable mood (mania or hypomania). Depression does not include mania.