What distinguishes bipolar I disorder from bipolar II disorder?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The key difference between bipolar I disorder and bipolar II disorder is that bipolar I involves episodes of full-blown mania, while bipolar II involves episodes of hypomania (which are less severe than mania). Both disorders can also include episodes of depression. Cyclothymic disorder is a separate, less severe mood disorder that involves cycling between hypomania and mild depression, and it can sometimes precede a diagnosis of bipolar II disorder.

What Distinguishes Bipolar I Disorder from Bipolar II Disorder