What Is Unspecified Bipolar Disorder (NOS)?

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition resulting in periods of elevated or depressed moods. Manic episodes often appear as heightened positive emotions, risky behavior, or feeling “God-like.” Individuals experiencing these highs may seem overly energetic or believe they are invincible.

Conversely, depressive episodes include low moods and decreased activity. Typically, individuals with bipolar disorder cycle between depression and mania. However, those with bipolar II have less severe manic episodes, known as hypomania. Regardless of the type, bipolar disorder can impact relationships, finances, work obligations, and overall functioning.¹

What Is Unspecified Bipolar?

Unspecified bipolar or bipolar NOS refers to symptoms that do not meet the clinical criteria for bipolar disorder. For example, someone may not exhibit enough symptoms of bipolar for diagnosis, experiences shorter manic or depressive episodes, or has had episodes of hypomania without depression. In short, an unspecified diagnosis is typically a “catch-all” for people who fall outside the typical presentation of bipolar.

Unspecified Bipolar Disorder Vs. Other Types of Bipolar

Unspecified bipolar differs from bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymia in that an individual does not fit within a specific diagnosis. The recognized types of bipolar have measurable DSM criteria that allow professionals to perform differential diagnoses to rule out other possible causes and determine appropriate treatments.

The types of bipolar disorder include:

• Bipolar I disorder: Individuals with bipolar I experience depressive and manic episodes.
• Bipolar II disorder: Bipolar II disorder results in depressive and less severe manic episodes known as hypomania. The impacts of this diagnosis are generally less impairing than those of bipolar II.
• Cyclothymia: Cyclothymia causes mood swings, but these highs and lows are less extreme than typical bipolar manic or depressive episodes.

Unspecified Bipolar Disorder Symptoms

Symptoms of unspecified bipolar disorder vary but are similar to those of traditional bipolar. Individuals may experience periods of elevated mood, restlessness, and grandiosity. Other times, they may have characteristic symptoms of depression, such as a decreased interest in activities, fatigue, sadness, or appetite changes.¹

Symptoms of mania may include:

• Decreased need for sleep
• Racing thoughts
• Risky behavior
• Impulsivity
• Compulsive spending
• Restlessness
• Feeling powerful
• Increased energy

Symptoms of depression may include:

• Sadness
• Loss of energy
• Appetite changes
• Lack of motivation
• Decreased interest in activities
• Suicidal thoughts
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feeling hopeless
• Sleep issues

What Causes Unspecified Bipolar Disorder?

As with other mental health conditions, experts suggest a combination of factors contribute to unspecified bipolar disorder. In general, bipolar appears to have a genetic component, as individuals with a family history of the disorder are more likely to develop symptoms. Some evidence also shows individuals with bipolar may exhibit atypical brain structure and function.²

Diagnostic Criteria for Unspecified Bipolar Disorder

Professionals may provide an unspecified diagnosis for bipolar disorder based on various assessments. They will also take time to rule out potential causes, such as substance use, anxiety, or personality disorders. Essentially, bipolar disorder NOS causes significant social, professional, and personal impairments but is less severe than other types of bipolar.

Below are examples of when a professional may diagnose unspecified bipolar disorder

• An individual experiences alternating manic and depressive symptoms, but the episodes are too short to meet the bipolar disorder criteria.
• Manic or depressive symptoms do not meet the intensity, duration, or distress criteria for bipolar.
• Information about symptoms and impairments is limited (i.e., in an emergency room).

Treatment for Unspecified Bipolar Disorder

Treating unspecified bipolar disorder means seeking medication management and therapy. Treatment is essential for regaining stability, functionality, and independence when living well with bipolar disorder.

Treatment options for bipolar disorder NOS include:

Medication Management

A licensed medical doctor can prescribe medications for bipolar. Generally, mood stabilizers and antipsychotics can help manage symptoms and promote safety, health, and life satisfaction. Every medication comes with the risk of adverse effects, so consult your physician to determine which option best suits your needs.

Therapy

Several forms of talk therapy can benefit those with unspecified bipolar disorder. Therapeutic goals may differ from person to person, but therapists can help individuals develop healthy coping skills and self-awareness of their symptoms.

Finding the right therapist can be difficult, but your mental health is important. Choosing a provider specializing in bipolar is wise, as they have experience with the high highs and low lows of the disorder. Additionally, online therapy options are available if you feel apprehensive about seeking support or have limited access to local mental health resources. You can use an online therapist directory to filter therapists based on experience, location, and insurance.

Common therapy options for unspecified bipolar disorder include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT for bipolar disorder focuses on identifying thoughts and emotions that precede mood swings. Recognizing these mental states can help individuals prepare for and cope with stressors.
• Family therapy: Many people living with bipolar have family members who provide support. In these cases, family therapy can help everyone learn to manage mood changes and cope accordingly.
• Group therapy: Group therapy allows individuals to gain new perspectives from others experiencing similar symptoms.
• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT): DBT incorporates mindfulness with CBT techniques to reduce unhealthy behavior, such as self-harm, suicidality, or substance use.

How to Cope With Unspecified Bipolar Disorder

Not knowing how to manage, expect, or overcome mood changes can be isolating. While living with bipolar disorder NOS can be challenging, adopting healthy lifestyle changes and building a support system can help. Prioritize your physical, emotional, and mental health by engaging in regular self-care. Additionally, spending time in nature can provide a much-needed boost when struggling.

Below are ways to cope with and manage unspecified bipolar disorder:

Self-Care Strategies

Self-care means tending to your internal needs, whether by seeking comfort from others, spending time alone, or taking a break from responsibilities. For example, journaling, listening to music, or setting boundaries are ways to practice emotional self-care. Choose activities that bring rejuvenation and happiness. You cannot cope with stress when not feeling your best.

Build a Support System

Having a support network is a success factor when living with bipolar disorder NOS.³ Your loved ones can anchor you when facing mood changes, life stressors, and distress. Finding local spiritual or local communities can also provide positive social outlets.

Meditation

Having a clear mind will help you manage the intensities and fluctuations of bipolar.⁴ Meditation encourages you to accept thoughts, feelings, and emotions as they occur, allowing them to pass without judgment. Regular practice also helps fine-tune your self-awareness of triggers to promote healthier responses to stress.

Chart Your Mood

Keeping a log of your moods can help you recognize patterns in your manic or depressive episodes. Like mindfulness, a tangible record of your emotions throughout the day, week, or month provides essential insight into what triggers worsening symptoms. Over time, you can learn what to expect in specific situations and develop individualized coping strategies.

Get Outside

Fresh air, sunshine, and greenery can help improve symptoms of bipolar.⁵ Spending time in nature can clear your mind and promote relaxation, even when feeling overwhelmed. Consider walking on your lunch break, going to the beach, or sitting on your back porch to unwind at the end of the day. Even a few minutes outside can prove beneficial.