Bipolar disorder not otherwise specified

Bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (BD-NOS) is a diagnosis for bipolar disorder (BD) when it does not fall within the other established sub-types. This can be due to various reasons such as the patient's symptoms not meeting the full criteria for a specific type of bipolar disorder or the frequency and duration of the manic and depressive episodes.

Definition

BD-NOS is a category used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) when a patient has symptoms of bipolar disorder but does not meet the specific criteria for the precise subtypes of BD, such as Bipolar I, Bipolar II, or Cyclothymia. The symptoms may not last long enough, or the patient may not have enough symptoms to be diagnosed with a specific subtype.

Symptoms

The symptoms of BD-NOS are similar to other types of bipolar disorder. They include episodes of elevated mood (mania), depressed mood, or a mix of both. Other symptoms can include changes in energy levels, sleep patterns, behavior, thinking, or judgment. However, these symptoms are not severe enough or do not last long enough to meet the full criteria for other types of bipolar disorder.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of BD-NOS is made based on the patient's symptoms and their impact on the patient's life. The mental health professional will conduct a thorough psychiatric evaluation and may also perform physical examinations and lab tests to rule out other conditions that could be causing the symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment for BD-NOS typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Medications can include mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and sometimes antidepressants. Psychotherapy (talk therapy) can help the patient manage symptoms and cope with the disorder.

See also

• Mood disorder
• Major depressive disorder
• Hypomania