Bipolar I Disorder is best defined by the presence of:

Bipolar I Disorder is best defined by the presence of:

• A. Hypomanic and depressive episodes
• B. Full manic episodes; depressive episodes common but not required
• C. Only depressive episodes with mild sadness
• D. Manic episodes without any depressive episodes ever

Answer: (B)

A full manic episode is the defining feature of Bipolar I disorder. Diagnosis requires at least one manic episode, which is a distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and abnormally increased energy or activity, lasting at least seven days (or any duration if hospitalization is needed), plus additional symptoms such as inflated self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, pressured speech, racing thoughts, distractibility, and risky or goal-directed activities. Depressive episodes may occur, but they are not required for the diagnosis. Hypomanic episodes are milder and do not meet the criteria for mania, and they are more typical of Bipolar II when accompanied by a major depressive episode. The option suggesting manic episodes with no depressive episodes ever is too restrictive and not how Bipolar I is defined, since depressive episodes can occur but are not necessary.

A full manic episode is the defining feature of Bipolar I disorder. Diagnosis requires at least one manic episode, which is a distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and abnormally increased energy or activity, lasting at least seven days (or any duration if hospitalization is needed), plus additional symptoms such as inflated self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, pressured speech, racing thoughts, distractibility, and risky or goal-directed activities. Depressive episodes may occur, but they are not required for the diagnosis. Hypomanic episodes are milder and do not meet the criteria for mania, and they are more typical of Bipolar II when accompanied by a major depressive episode. The option suggesting manic episodes with no depressive episodes ever is too restrictive and not how Bipolar I is defined, since depressive episodes can occur but are not necessary.