Compaing bipolar II from cyclothymic disorder

Comprehensive assessment should include multiple types of data such as physical exams that assess general health concerns as well psychological assessments including interviews with both patient and family members if applicable (Geller et al., 2003). During this process questions about past medical history should be asked in order to identify any risk factors that could contribute towards an accurate diagnosis such as whether there is any familial history of psychiatric illness or drug abuse (Geller et al., 2003). By assessing both the physical health along with psychological components it provides greater insight into determining which condition best suits a particular case based on its unique set criteria for each disease. For instance asking about sleep disturbances such as insomnia can help distinguish between Cyclothymic Disorder from Bipolar II since people who suffer from Cyclothymic Disorder typically do not have significant changes in sleeping patterns while people suffering from Bipolar 2 often report sleeping too much during times when they feel depressed or too little when feeling “high” (Geller et al., 2003). Further questions related lifestyle choices like alcohol consumption can also be used differentiating Cyclothymic Disorder which does not display signs associated with abusing substances while Bipolar 2 sufferers may use drugs/alcohol excessively during manic episode(s) (). Finally evaluating social functioning can provide further information since those suffering from Cyclothymic Disorder usually still maintain relationships while someone diagnosed soley with Bipolar 2 would likely struggle due stress created by uncontrollable emotional swings(Geller et al., 2003). Comparing clinical criteria for both disorders allows clinicians to differentiate between them based upon severity levels for each symptom presented by patient . Allowing detailed evaluation ensures accurate diagnosis rather than confusion over which one better describes situation.. This is important because incorrect labeling poses potential problems concerning treatment options available .For example , someone diagnosed wrongly might only receive cognitive therapy instead proper pharmacological intervention necessary managing severe cases . Furthermore , comprehensive assessment also leads increased understanding regarding underlying cause affected individual´s behavior allowing development effective intervention plans reduce likelihood relapses occurring future . In conclusion , comprehensive assessment plays key role diagnosing correctly between Cyclothyme Disorders versus Bipolar Ii by flagging relevant indicators through physical examinations interviewing techniques.. Additionally , it helps build profile directing practitioners towards personalized treatments improve long-term outcomes enhance quality life patients seeking assistance managing this type mental illness. References: American Psychiatric Association (2013). Diagnostic And Statistical Manual Of Mental Disorders 5th Edition – DSM-5™ Washington DC: American Psychiatric Publishing Incorporation Geller BA, Tillman R & Bolhofner K (2003) Child And AdolescentBipolar Disorder: A Review Of The Past 10 Years J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 42: 868–876

Sample Solution

Cyclothymic disorder and bipolar II are both mental health conditions that involve a person experiencing periods of low mood, known as depression, and periods of elevated mood, known as mania. Although the two conditions have similarities, there are also distinct differences in how they present themselves. Comprehensive assessment is essential in order to arrive at the correct diagnosis due to these differences as well as their individual effects on an individual’s functioning. The primary difference between cyclothymic disorder and bipolar II is the duration and depth of symptoms experienced during each stage. In cyclothymic disorder, the periods of depression and mania tend to be shorter than those seen with bipolar II but may last for up to two years or more before cycling back into another period (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2013). Furthermore, individuals with cyclothymic disorder experience milder symptoms compared to those with bipolar II; this includes having hypomania episodes instead of full-blown manic episodes. On the other hand, individuals with bipolar II will experience depressive episodes that can last weeks or months at a time along with usually having intense manic episodes (APA, 2013).