BiPolar vs Depression

Resource Article BiPolar vs Depression

Information: What Is the Difference Between Depression and Bipolar Disorder?

Depression and bipolar disorder are two mood disorders that have many similarities. However, they have key differences that are essential to understand for the sake of effective treatment.

Mental health is becoming more of a mainstream topic, an incredible advancement that normalizes the experiences of many. As such, isn’t uncommon to hear someone say they’re feeling depressed.

However, clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder, isn’t just feeling sad. It is a persistent feeling of hopelessness and emptiness, losing interest in things that used to excite you, and several other symptoms including changes in sleep, appetite, and thinking.

Depression

• Persistent feeling of hopelessness and emptiness

• Changes in appetite, sleep, thinking

• Significant fatigue

Bipolar Disorder

• Marked by episodes of mania or hypomania and depression

• May cause impairment or require hospitalization

• May have feelings of extreme energy when manic

Similarly, some may casually say they’re bipolar because they’re feeling a wide range of moods. But bipolar disorder is marked by episodes of mania or hypomania and depression that significantly impact your life.