When a person has episodes of hypomania that shift back and forth with mild depression for at least two years, he or she has what form of bipolar disorder?

A. Bipolar I Disorder

B. Bipolar II Disorder

C. Cyclothymic Disorder

D. BP-NOS

http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/bipolar-disorder/complete-index.shtml

So, it's C right?

To determine the correct answer, we need to understand the different types of bipolar disorder and their respective symptoms. Here's a breakdown of the options:

A. Bipolar I Disorder: This type of bipolar disorder is characterized by manic episodes that typically last for at least seven days or are severe enough to require hospitalization. These episodes are accompanied by substantial impairment in daily functioning.

B. Bipolar II Disorder: Bipolar II Disorder involves alternating episodes of hypomania (less severe form of mania) and major depression. Hypomanic episodes are shorter in duration, lasting at least four days, but they do not cause significant impairment.

C. Cyclothymic Disorder: Cyclothymic Disorder is a milder form of bipolar disorder where a person experiences numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms (not meeting criteria for major depression) over a period of at least two years. However, the symptoms do not meet the threshold for a diagnosis of either bipolar II disorder or major depressive disorder.

D. BP-NOS (Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified): This category is used when symptoms of bipolar disorder are present but do not meet the specific criteria for any other recognized subtype.

Based on the description provided, the correct answer in this case would be C. Cyclothymic Disorder. This is because the person experiences episodes of hypomania alternating with mild depression for a period of at least two years, which aligns with the diagnostic criteria for cyclothymic disorder.