Which criterion is required for a Bipolar I Disorder diagnosis?

Which criterion is required for a Bipolar I Disorder diagnosis?

• A. At least one manic episode
• B. At least one depressive episode
• C. Either manic or major depressive episode
• D. Manic episode with psychotic features

Answer: (A)

Bipolar I Disorder is defined by the occurrence of a manic episode. A manic episode is a distinct period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood with unusually increased energy or activity, lasting at least one week (or any duration if hospitalization is necessary) and causing marked impairment. It requires several accompanying symptoms, such as inflated self-esteem or grandiosity, decreased need for sleep, pressured or rapid speech, racing thoughts, distractibility, increased goal-directed activity, or engagement in risky activities. The essential point is that you only need one manic episode to meet the diagnosis, even if there are no depressive episodes. Depressive episodes can occur in Bipolar I, but they are not required. Manic episodes with psychotic features can happen, but psychosis is a specifier, not a prerequisite.

Bipolar I Disorder is defined by the occurrence of a manic episode. A manic episode is a distinct period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood with unusually increased energy or activity, lasting at least one week (or any duration if hospitalization is necessary) and causing marked impairment. It requires several accompanying symptoms, such as inflated self-esteem or grandiosity, decreased need for sleep, pressured or rapid speech, racing thoughts, distractibility, increased goal-directed activity, or engagement in risky activities.

The essential point is that you only need one manic episode to meet the diagnosis, even if there are no depressive episodes. Depressive episodes can occur in Bipolar I, but they are not required. Manic episodes with psychotic features can happen, but psychosis is a specifier, not a prerequisite.