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Bipolar and related

Bipolar II disorder

Major depressive episodes alternating with hypomania: phases of more energy and activity, less intense than mania. Depressions are usually the heaviest.

Common signs

Recurrent depressionsPeriods of more energy, less sleep and more activityMood changes that others notice

Tips

For you

  1. Ask for an assessment: it is often mistaken for depression
  2. Keep a mood and sleep diary
  3. Combine medical treatment and psychotherapy

For family and friends

  1. Help keep a record of mood and sleep
  2. Don't blame them for the ups and downs: they are part of the disorder

When to ask for help

  1. If the depression is severe or there are thoughts of death: 024
  2. If spending or risky behaviour appears

Are you having a really hard time? If you're thinking of harming yourself, call 024 (free, 24 hours) or 112.

Guidance test

Answer thinking about the last few weeks. There are 8 questions and you get your result straight away. Your answers are not saved or sent.

0 of 8
1. I have had several periods of depression
2. I have had days of lots of energy, creativity and less sleep
3. During those periods I did more than usual
4. Others noticed I was more wound up
5. A slump usually followed
6. Antidepressants have affected me strangely (wired or irritable)
7. My mood changes last days or weeks
8. I have relatives with bipolar disorder
Also take the full bipolar disorder test →

Free resources

Downloadable PDF sheetSigns, tips and resources to print or saveFull article: Bipolar disorderFree resource from Clínica VivaldiFundación Mundo Bipolar (Spanish bipolar disorder foundation)Free external resourceAll our free guidesFree resource from Clínica Vivaldi

Related disorders

Bipolar I disorderBipolar and relatedCyclothymic disorderBipolar and related

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Reviewed by María Teresa Fernández Vicente, health psychologist and neuropsychologist (registration no. CV17304), in November 2026. Educational information prepared by the Clínica Vivaldi team based on the DSM-5-TR classification. It does not replace a professional assessment and cannot be used to diagnose.