Which of the following best describes bipolar I disorder?

• A. Characterized by alternating periods of hypomania and mild depressive symptoms, but never full manic or major depressive episodes
• B. Characterized by recurrent major depressive episodes without any history of mania or hypomania
• C. Characterized by at least one manic episode, which may be preceded or followed by hypomanic or major depressive episodes
• D. Characterized by chronic, mild depressive symptoms lasting for at least two years

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the key features of Bipolar I Disorder by reviewing its diagnostic criteria in the DSM-5, which emphasizes the presence of manic episodes.
2. Step 2: Differentiate between manic episodes and hypomanic episodes. Manic episodes are more severe and last longer, often causing significant impairment, while hypomanic episodes are milder and shorter.
3. Step 3: Recognize that Bipolar I Disorder requires at least one full manic episode, which may be accompanied by major depressive episodes or hypomanic episodes, but the manic episode is essential for diagnosis.
4. Step 4: Compare the options given: exclude descriptions that mention only hypomania and mild depression (which aligns more with Bipolar II), only major depressive episodes without mania (which aligns with Major Depressive Disorder), or chronic mild depression (which aligns with dysthymia).
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description of Bipolar I Disorder is the one that includes at least one manic episode, possibly with hypomanic or major depressive episodes before or after.