New Concept, Definition and Clinic of Mixed Unit in Bipolar Disorder

Objective: To explore a clinical and practical method for diagnosing and evaluating mixed states of bipolar disorder. Method: Starting from a theoretical perspective, to analyze the forms of expression of mixed states, propose a concept that is different from mixed episode and mixed features to make up for the lack of understanding of mixed states, and this concept is the mixed unit. Result: The mixed unit is a concept different from mixed episodes and mixed features. It focuses on the mutual modification and influence of depressive and manic symptoms, not only losing the original color of depressive and manic symptoms, but also producing some new symptoms. This, together with mixed episodes and mixed features, constitutes a comprehensive understanding of the mixed state. Conclusion: The proposal of the mixed unit has completed the understanding of the mixed state of bipolar disorder. The mixed state is a complex phenomenon. The proposal of the mixed unit concept may be beneficial for a comprehensive understanding of the mixed state. The three together form the complete image of the mixed state.