Which statement about Bipolar 2 disorder is true?

Bipolar II disorder is indeed defined by the presence of hypomanic episodes and major depressive episodes, but it must also be characterized by having never experienced a full manic episode. Hypomania is less severe than mania and does not result in the same level of impairment in social or occupational functioning. Therefore, the assertion that individuals with Bipolar II disorder have never met the criteria for full manic episodes is central to the diagnosis of this particular subtype of bipolar disorder.

In Bipolar II disorder, the episodes of depression can be quite severe and significantly impact daily functioning, while the hypomanic episodes, though elevated in mood and activity, are not debilitating like full manic episodes can be. This distinction is critical in differentiating Bipolar II from Bipolar I disorder, where full manic episodes are present.

The other options do not accurately describe Bipolar II disorder. While it includes hypomanic episodes, these are not the only episodes experienced. The disorder does not encompass both manic and depressive episodes, as it specifically lacks the full manic episodes that characterize Bipolar I disorder. Lastly, the inconsistency of mood is a hallmark of bipolar disorders, as people with Bipolar II may fluctuate between hypomanic and depressive states rather than being in a state