Bipolar disorder type 2 linked to 60% higher premature death risk

A study involving more than 11,000 participants, published in JAMA Network Open, indicates that individuals with bipolar disorder type 2 face a 60% higher risk of premature death compared to peers of the same age without the condition.

The research highlights a particularly severe risk of suicide, which is more than six times higher among those with type 2 bipolar disorder. Increased mortality was also observed due to cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, as well as non-natural causes such as accidents.

Experts note that type 2 bipolar disorder is often misdiagnosed as unipolar depression or anxiety because hypomanic episodes—which are less intense than the full mania seen in type 1—may be mistaken for periods of high productivity. This delay in correct diagnosis can hinder effective treatment and support, increasing vulnerability to physical health issues like obesity and substance abuse.