Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar Disorder And Depression: A Psychiatrist Explains The Difference
September 8, 2022
Medically Reviewed by Senior Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr. Tan Sheng Neng
MMED (Psych), MBBS, MCI, FAMSSeptember 8, 2022
Although bipolar disorder and depression are mood disorders and mental health conditions that exhibit depressive episodes, they have vast differences. In addition, the many similarities between the two make diagnosis challenging. Nevertheless, effective management is posible for both.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder causes two extreme moods – depression and mania. Manic episodes rarely occur, and symptoms are barely noticeable. However, at times, bipolar disorder appears similar to depression.
The following differences create distinctions between bipolar disorder and depression.
- Individuals diagnosed with bipolar I disorder may have about one manic episode but not an episode of major depression.
- Individuals diagnosed with bipolar II disorder may have about one hypomanic episode following a significant depressive episode
- Individuals with a major depressive disorder are devoid of extreme elevated feelings that can be considered hypomania or mania.
Diagnosing bipolar disorder takes time. It may sometimes take close monitoring for months or even years for accurate diagnosis.
Causes and Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder
There is no single identifiable cause for bipolar disorder. Scientists believe there are various factors at play. One of these factors is genetic. In addition, an imbalance between norepinephrine and serotonin is also common among individuals with bipolar disorder. For instance, norepinephrine causes manic episodes.
Bipolar disorder can occur at any age, although it often develops between the ages of 15 and 19 and rarely develops after 40. However, in rare cases, some individuals are diagnosed beyond this age range, and the condition persists throughout their life.
Individuals with bipolar disorder may experience different symptoms. Some may experience a cycle of extremely low mood following an extreme episode of feeling happy and cheerful.
Some individuals may have mixed episodes, simultaneous occurrence of symptoms of mania and depression. For the purpose of diagnosis, a manic episode has to persist for 7 days or if the individual has severe symptoms, and/or requires hospitalisation.
Some symptoms of bipolar disorder include:
- Improved self-esteem
- High energy
- Elevated mood
- Being more goal-driven
- Reduced sleep
- Talking more than normal
- Racing thoughts
- Fast flow of speech
- Irritability
- Easily distracted
- Likes taking risks without considering the consequences
Negative symptoms of psychosis include:
- Inability to feel emotions
- Abnormally strong reactions to usual stimuli
- Lack of self-care and personal hygiene
Some individuals may have psychosis during a depressive or manic episode, and experience occasional hallucinations and delusional ideas. In addition, milder manic symptoms or hypomania may occur among individuals with bipolar disorder II.
Depression
There is no known cause for persistent depression. Some hereditary components and neurotransmitter imbalances are said to be involved. The hallmark symptoms of depression include:
- Feeling low or down
- Loss of interest in things
- Sense of hopelessness
- Inappropriate feelings of helplessness, guilt, or worthlessness
- Energy loss
- Difficulty focusing
- Difficulty sleeping
- Oversleeping
- Weight loss
- Suicidal thoughts
- Restlessness
- Sluggish movement
- Slow speech
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Treatment
Psychotherapy and medication are the two generally accepted forms of treatment for depression and bipolar disorder.
Psychotherapy involves a one-on-one conversation with a mental health professional. For example, an individual with a mood disorder may seek the help of a professional who specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy.
One of the medications prescribed for bipolar disorder is lithium. Other drugs used for treating and managing bipolar disorders include valproate, lamotrigine, and carbamazepine.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may be prescribed for those with major depressive disorder. Some patients may be referred to undergo therapy along with their medication.
Management
Early diagnosis of depression or bipolar disorder is one of the best ways to manage the condition and improve the patient’s quality of life. In addition, successful management through medication and therapy may help reduce the negative impact of these mood disorders.
Psychiatrists and healthcare professionals manage and treat the psychosocial effects that come with the symptoms. Individuals with bipolar disorder or depression can consider joining condition specific support groups which reduces the sense of isolation felt from having severe mental health conditions.
