According to the material, what is required for the diagnosis of Bipolar I Disorder?

• A. Experiencing one manic episode
• B. Experiencing one major depressive episode
• C. Experiencing both manic and depressive episodes
• D. Experiencing hypomanic episodes only

Answer: (A)

Mania is the defining criterion for Bipolar I Disorder. You only need to experience at least one manic episode to meet the diagnosis, even if depressive episodes have not occurred. A manic episode involves a distinct period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood with increased energy, lasting at least one week (or any duration if hospitalization is required) and plus three or more symptoms such as inflated self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, pressured speech, racing thoughts, distractibility, increased goal-directed activity, or risky behaviors.

Depressive episodes by themselves do not establish Bipolar I; they point toward Major Depressive Disorder unless a manic episode is also present. Experiencing both manic and depressive episodes is common in Bipolar I, but not required for the diagnosis. Hypomanic episodes alone do not qualify Bipolar I, as they are milder and do not cause the same level of impairment. So the key requirement is at least one manic episode.