Bipolar II Disorder is a mood disorder characterized by alternating periods of depression and hypomania, a less severe form of mania. Type 2 bipolar disorder earns the spotlight for its major depression episodes. It's as if what's lost in having only a dampened manic phase (hypomania) is frequently made up for on the. Bipolar II is a chronic mental illness, defined by episodes of depression and periods of elevated or irritable mood, called hypomania. This is similar to mania but less extreme. Although bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, you can manage your mood swings and other symptoms by following a treatment plan. In most cases, healthcare professionals use medicines and talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy, to treat bipolar disorder. What Is Bipolar II Disorder? Bipolar II disorder (pronounced bipolar two ) is a form of mental illness. Bipolar II is similar to bipolar I disorder with moods cycling between high and low over. Information on bipolar disorder including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and resources to find help for yourself or others. Bipolar II disorder involves episodes of elevated mood and depression. Learn how it differs from bipolar I, how to recognize it, and which treatments can help. Bipolar 1, on average, starts at the age of 18 years old, and Bipolar 2 starts at age 22 years old on average. However, most delay seeking treatment for an average of 8 years after symptoms start. Living with bipolar II disorder means having periods of hypomania followed by periods of depression. We explain the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of bipolar II disorder. What are the bipolar 2 criteria? Learn the DSM-5-TR diagnostic requirements for hypomania and depression, and how Type 2 differs from Bipolar 1. Reviewed by an MD.