The Mood Spectrum

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I like the view of bipolar disorder as on a spectrum. I created the graphic above based on the Stomp on Step 1 Mood Disorders graphic I found! For those who may be confused as to what type of episode meets what diagnostic criteria, this can provide a quick overview.

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Overview:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) = severe depressive episode
• Type 1 Bipolar Disorder = requires mania to meet criteria (often also has depressive episode/symptoms as well)
• Type 2 Bipolar Disorder = requires at least 1 severe depressive episode and 1 hypomanic episode
• Cyclothymia/”bipolar light” = includes mild depression & hypomania
• Dysthymia = chronic, low-grade depression