AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Bipolar I disorder is the most severe form of the illness. Bipolar II disorder is characterized by predominantly depressive episodes accompanied by occasional hypomanic episodes. Hypomanic episodes are milder than manic episodes but can still impair functioning.

Detailed explanation-2: -Unlike bipolar I and II disorders, cyclothymia typically causes symptoms on more days than not, with few periods of neutral mood in between. Bipolar I and II disorders can also cause significant and alarming symptoms, such as delusional thinking or suicidal thoughts, which lead people to look for help.

Detailed explanation-3: -Cyclothymia is rare, affecting less than 1% of the population. Because it is often diagnosed as another disorder or goes unnoticed, it is possible this number is underestimated.

Detailed explanation-4: -Over time, people with cyclothymia are at increased risk of developing full-blown bipolar disorder. Limited data suggests they are at higher risk of suicide. Some clinicians think that mood stabilizers may help to reduce this risk, although more research is needed to determine whether they may be effective.