Question

Describe the difference between depression and bipolar disorders and please be sure to include a description of the clinical characteristics of each.

(Meant for an abnormal psychology class, we use the textbook Understanding Abnormal Behavior 11e by David Sue if thats any help)

Answer 1

Bipolar disorder and depression are different; however, bipolar disorder can have depressive symptoms. The symptoms of depression must be present for at least 2 weeks where the individual may feel depressed most part of the day or every day or may experience loss of interest in all activities or those activities that the individual otherwise was very much interested. Other symptoms of depression include loss of appetite and weight loss or significant weight gain, disturbances in sleep or too much sleep, thoughts of harming oneself or suicidal thoughts, feelings of worthlessness and restlessness, lack of energy, difficulty in thinking/ concentrating or making a decision. These symptoms of depression play a detrimental role on the social and occupational life of the individual. In order to be diagnosed with major depressive disorder, the individual must not have a history of manic or hypomanic episodes

Bipolar disorder is characterized by depressive symptoms and mania. Bipolar disorder involves mood swings that fluctuate from depressive lows to sudden manic highs. A manic episode is characterized by sudden period of elevated or irritable mood, high energy that is directed towards the goal which lasts for a week. The symptoms of mania include boost in self-esteem or increased grandiosity, reckless behaviors, being very talkative, easily distractible, decreased sleep, racing thoughts. These symptoms cause impairment in the social and occupational life of the individual. There are two types of bi polar disorder. Bipolar disorder I is characterized by having at least one manic episode. Bipolar disorder II is characterized by at least one depressive episode and bouts of hypomania which is elevated mood. Hypomania is not as severe as mania. Individuals with bipolar II disorder experience longer depressive periods and shorter hypomanic periods.