Q I heard Bipolar I and Bipolar II are different — how do they differ, and does treatment change?
A Bipolar I is defined by full manic episodes (severe enough to require hospitalization), while Bipolar II features hypomanic episodes (less severe) alternating with major depressive episodes. The intensity differs significantly, but the core treatment principle with mood stabilizers is the same.
Detailed Answer
Bipolar I disorder is characterized by clear manic episodes (typically lasting more than one week, often accompanied by hospitalization, legal issues, or self-harm risk). Bipolar II features hypomanic episodes — milder than mania — along with prolonged depressive episodes. Both types require long-term use of mood stabilizers (lithium, valproate, lamotrigine).
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Korean medicine approaches treatment based on the current episode phase rather than the specific type. During manic phases, the focus is on clearing Heart Fire (清心火) and sedation. During depressive phases, the strategy shifts to warming the Gallbladder (溫膽) and soothing the Liver (疏肝) to restore energy flow. This serves as a complement to — not a substitute for — conventional pharmacotherapy.
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