Just have a question.

I was talking to a friend of mine today about bipolar disorder. Her therapist told her that Bipolar I is "worse" than bipolar II. I'm just wondering if anyone else has ever heard that and if there is any truth behind it? I understand that every illness has its own set of problems. But she made is seem like bipolar I is just SOOOO much worse than bipolar II. I know there are differences between the two, but I've never heard that one is more severe than the other. Anyone know anything about this?

-Jennifer-

By "worse", they mean and I know, (my bro is BPI and I BPII) that people that are or have Bipolar-I have more than just "mild" manic episodes and depressive episodes are usually not those risking suicide as with people that have Bipolar-II. And this even is not just a black and white situation, symptoms/traits still can vary patient to patient. But basically, what has been said holds true.
Bipolar-I is a more severe case when referring to the manic side of this disorder, often resulting or having a strong possibility of escalating into violence.
One thing to not forget too, is the intensity of mood(s) can also vary in each individual.
There are several books at the top of all the threads here, as well as some internet info. that can offer more detailed info. if you wish to learn more about this. Also if you are under a pdoc's care,feel free to ask him or her for more info., after all a patient has the right to know about their illness/disorder, and treatment options/meds.
The suggested reading I listed is really informative and interesting. There is so much more out there.
When compared to my brother, and nephew, I sort of consider myself fortunate to be Bipolar-II(mild) and have great results with minimal dose meds.
My brother, having BP-I dxed in the mid 60's has been through some nightmares, and back in the day, experimental meds. My nephew too, has had some really rough times with this (see the genetic linkage here?) both experienced some very vioent manic episodes, requiring police intervention, and hospitalizations. Oh well, I won't keep rambling on, I tend to get redundant, ha!ha!
Hope this helped with some info.

Take care now,
DE


PS
Though your friend may be DXed with BP-I, vs BP-II, she should be encouraged that she still can get proper meds. to keep her episodic free. Tell, never give up, even when times see very trying, it can all work out and things do get better.

There really isn't a worse or better dx between BPI or II. They are just different. As I understand it BPI tends to be more extreme on the manic side and can have mixed episodes. Hence the term full blown mania associated with it. BPII can be very extreme on the depressive side but not true in all cases. I guess i don't really see one as more or less severe than the other. Both need to be addressed to keep you stabalized. Anyway it is nothing like the difference between a cold and pneumonia. Hope this helped.

Wow, great answer to this member's question.
I apologize for mine was so long and maybe "run on", bipolar bear this was great. I agree with what you said.
BP and/or meds are not a "one size fits all", there are many variations to this theme.
Regardless, Mental pollution, one should seek treatment and keep in touch with their pdoc and/or therapist, especially when feeling different, it could be the begining of an episode.
I wish all of you at this forum as well as other, lots of luck and patience with dealing with this disorder, we can make it, I cheer you all on.

Sincerely,
DE

((((((((((((((( so many genuiine hugs to y'all )))))))))))

i am bipolarII and i just came out of a FOUR week paralyzing depressive period. they both have horrible sides.

neither is worse and neither is better. i've lost relationships, jobs and money due to bipolarII and i suppose i could lose my life, if i ever get lower than i was during the last episode.

I can identify, Pat. I'm bipolar II, and on the slog through a truly hellacious depressive swamp right now -- in the muck up to my waist and still sinking, it feels like. On the other hand, my hypomanic episodes generally bring almost explosive creativity and energy. Unfortunately, it feels like I get one hypomanic period for every 500 sodding midnight-toned depressive ones. Ta. Cheshire Cat