Which condition is marked by the presence of both hypomanic and major depressive episodes?

Bipolar II Disorder is characterized by the occurrence of at least one major depressive episode along with at least one hypomanic episode. This combination of mood states defines the disorder, distinguishing it from Bipolar I Disorder, which involves episodes of full-blown mania. In Bipolar II, individuals experience significant depressive episodes that can impact their daily functioning, coupled with episodes of hypomania that are less severe than full mania. Understanding this distinction is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment, as the presence of both types of episodes indicates a more complex mood regulation challenge than major depressive disorder alone. Dysruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder do not involve the hypomanic episodes that are foundational to the diagnosis of Bipolar II.