Let's understand the exact difference between depression and bipolar disorder.

Do you sometimes feel very sad and empty? Do you have times when you don't feel like doing anything, and you don't have any interest in doing things you used to enjoy? These feelings are common to all of us. But if this situation continues, it can be something more than just ordinary sadness. At times like these, it is very important to identify whether it is depression or the more complex bipolar disorder . Because the treatments for these two diseases are very different from each other. So today, let's talk about this simply.

First of all, what is depression?

Depression, or as we medically call it, Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), is not just a feeling of sadness. It is a deep sadness or emptiness that lasts for days or weeks. In this condition, you may lose hope in life, feel worthless, and feel restless all the time.

Other common symptoms of depression include changes in sleep (either insomnia or excessive sleep), changes in appetite, and difficulty concentrating. Some days you may feel better, but without proper treatment, your mood will continue to be low. In the worst cases, you may even have thoughts of suicide.

So what is bipolar disorder?

Okay, now let's look at bipolar disorder. This is sometimes called manic depression. The word 'bipolar' itself means 'two extremes.' That is, there is an oscillation between two extremes of mood in this illness.

Simply put, a person with bipolar disorder has periods of deep sadness, similar to depression (depressive episodes). But, in contrast, there are periods of extreme happiness, high energy, and hyperactivity (manic or hypomanic episodes).

It's like riding a roller coaster of emotions. You may go from feeling deeply sad for weeks or months to suddenly becoming hyperactive. This hyperactive (manic) period can last from a few days to two months or more. Sometimes you can have mixed episodes, which are a combination of both extremes. That is, you may feel sad and hopeless, but also feel extremely anxious and agitated.

Although this hyperactive period may feel very exciting at first, it can be very dangerous. Because at that time, you are tempted to do risky things without thinking about anything. Also, every hyperactive (manic) phase is usually followed by a severe depressive episode.

The main difference between depression and bipolar disorder: Hyperactivity (Mania)

The most obvious and important difference between these two illnesses is this hyperactivity . Someone with only depression does not experience this kind of 'high', that is, mania or hypomania.

What is the hyperactive phase called mania?

This is just an overactive feeling that goes beyond 'being happy'. At a time like this,

• Your mood swings are uncontrollable. At first it feels good, but after a while it turns into a chaotic, out-of-control state.
• The ability to make decisions is almost completely lost. They take excessive risks without thinking about the consequences. For example, spending a lot of money at once, driving recklessly, and engaging in risky sexual behavior .
• I feel like I don't need sleep. I have a lot of energy even after a few hours of sleep.
• Thoughts keep flowing through my mind. This makes me want to talk very quickly, jumping from topic to topic. I feel like I can do too much at once.
• Gets angry quickly and gets angry.

What is Hypomania?

This is a milder, less intense state of hyperactivity than mania . During this time, you may feel better, have more energy, and be able to do more. This can make it difficult for you to recognize that you have the condition. However, your friends and family may notice a change in your behavior.

Why is correct diagnosis and treatment so important?

Imagine, if you only go to see a doctor when you are feeling very sad and down, the doctor is likely to diagnose you as depressed. If you or someone who knows you well does not tell you about your manic episodes, the diagnosis of bipolar disorder may be missed.

This can be very dangerous. Because if you give a bipolar patient only some medications for depression (especially antidepressants), they can make their manic state worse, that is, trigger it. That is why an accurate diagnosis is so important.

Bipolar disorder is treated with mood-stabilizing medications, sometimes in combination with other medications.

How can I help the doctor?

It is very helpful to keep a journal of your mood swings, sleep patterns, eating habits, and important life events. This can give you and your doctor a good picture of how your moods are going. There are even phone apps that can help with this these days. But remember, these are never a substitute for your doctor's advice and treatment plan.

Bipolar disorder usually begins around the age of 25. It can also occur with other mental or physical conditions (e.g., anxiety, ADHD, diabetes, thyroid disease). If someone in your family has the condition, you are at higher risk of developing it.

If you suspect you have these symptoms, please talk to a mental health professional. With a proper diagnosis and a combination of medication and counseling, you can manage the condition well and live a normal life.

Bipolar, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mental Health, Mood Swings, Mania, Hypomania, Mental Health Sinhala