At some point in our lives we will all feel a little bit moody, sad or unhappy. Its part of being  a human being and it’s something that we can’t avoid.

However, when someone is suffering with bipolar disorder, the mood swings that they will experience are very severe. The good news is that despite these intense symptoms, it’s a mental illness that can be treated with the right help.

Also known as manic depression, bipolar disorder involves uncontrollable mood swings that range from depression to suddenly feeling excited and elated.

The US National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) state that bipolar disorder usually develops in an individual’s teenage years or in early adulthood, with almost half the cases reported being before the age of 25.

The NIMH also says that some individuals may experience the symptoms of bipolar during their childhood, while others may experience it later in life.

While there are some similarities between bipolar disorder and depression, the key difference is the fact that those who are depressed wont experience the extreme mood swings that comes with manic depression.

However, there are many more differences that need to be pointed out, that’s why in this article; we are going to tell you how bipolar disorder differs from depression.

How Bipolar Disorder and Depression are Similar
There are many similarities in bipolar disorder and depression, which include

  • Feeling sad and depressed for a long period of time.
  • Becoming emotional for practically no reason whatsoever.
  • Feeling insignificant.
  • Having a lack of energy and showing no interest in doing things that were once enjoyed.

Due to these common symptoms, many people that suffer from bipolar disorder are often wrongly diagnosed with depression.

How Bipolar Disorder and Depression Differ
When an individual suffers from bipolar disorder, they will often:

  • Feel jubilant, elated and euphoric.
  • Become easily agitated, violent and moody.
  • Feel as if everything is rushed, which will lead to speeding thoughts and fast talking.
  • Think that they are better than anybody else; feel on top of the world and one of a kind.
  • Make poor decisions and have bad judgement.
  • Become involved in risky activities and lose any inhibitions they might have.

Children suffering from bipolar disorder may often be very hyperactive and become easily distracted. Teenagers may become isolated and anti-social or involve themselves in risky behaviours such as sex, drinking e.t.c.

Those suffering with bipolar disorder are also more unlikely to complete their daily activities or responsibilities and will also think about the possibility of suicide more than those suffering from depression.

Bipolar Disorder and Depression Help
If you or a loved one is struggling with bipolar disorder or depression, then it’s important to seek professional mental help as soon as possible.

We can provide you with access to the best private psychiatric clinics in South Africa. Call us now and let one of qualified counsellors find a mental health facility to suit you or your loved ones every individual needs.