LaDonna's family has brought her into your clinic because of her irritability, rapid speech, and engagement in dangerous and risky behaviors. They have noticed the behaviors for the past week. They are concerned because this is different than what LaDonna has experienced in the past. During the past several years, she has experienced several episodes of depression and they aren't sure what is happening now. Which disorder does this best represent?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

LaDonna's symptoms of irritability, rapid speech, and engagement in dangerous and risky behaviors are indicative of a manic episode, which is a criterion of bipolar I disorder. Additionally, the fact that LaDonna has previously experienced episodes of depression suggests that she may be experiencing a manic episode within the context of bipolar I disorder, rather than a hypomanic episode within the context of bipolar II disorder.

LaDonna's Family Has Brought Her into Your Clinic Because of Her