there is no black and white and it is a spectrum. However, many rely on the very strict criteria of the DSM-VI. I am BP2 and have severe, severe depression and nothing like the true definition of mania. I was recently (last week) diagnosed with Treatment Refractory Depression aka Treatment Resistant Derpression bc I do not respond to any medication and never have. The Neuro Psych who evaluated me said I Major Depressive Disorder and was not BP2. Smart guy, but he based that on any mania and hypomania incidents I have had.
Who knows what the hell I have. I am depessed and anxious all the time.