Bipolar Disorder: Facts & Statistics

Depression vs. Bipolar Disorder

Antidepressants can be ineffective or even worsen symptoms in people with bipolar disorder if they are not used appropriately. That's why getting a correct diagnosis is so important.

Subsections:

• Two different conditions
• Depressive symptoms vs manic symptoms
• About bipolar episodes
• When signs are missed
• Who is at risk

Two different conditions

Major depressive disorder–what people commonly call "depression"–and bipolar disorder do have some symptoms in common. However, they are two different conditions that require different treatments.

In general, major depressive disorder involves overwhelming feelings of sadness, worthlessness and hopelessness. Bipolar disorder involves episodes of depression but also episodes of mania–symptoms of which can include excessive energy, extreme irritability or "out of control" behavior. (People with depression do not experience manic episodes.)

Depressive Symptoms vs. Manic Symptoms

Depressive Symptoms	Manic Symptoms
Sadness Excessive crying Loss of pleasure Sleeping too much or too little Low energy Restlessness Difficulty concentrating Irritability Loss of appetite or overeating Feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness Ongoing physical problems that are not caused by physical illness or injury (e.g., headaches, digestive problems, pain) Thoughts of death or suicide	Inappropriate sense of euphoria (excitement) Reckless behavior Little sleep needed Excessive energy Racing thoughts; talking too much Out of control spending Difficulty concentrating Irritability Abnormally increased activity, including sexual activity Poor judgment Aggressive behavior

About bipolar episodes

Bipolar disorder causes both depressive episodes and manic episodes at different times during the illness. A common misperception is that bipolar mood changes are usually quick and drastic. In reality, the shift from one extreme to the other is often quite gradual. And an episode–either depressive or manic–can last for days, weeks, months or even years.

Moreover, people with bipolar disorder are not always depressed or manic; they can go for long stretches of time in a "normal," balanced mood. The typical person with bipolar disorder has an average of four episodes during the first 10 years of the illness.

When signs are missed

Sadly, some people are diagnosed and treated for major depressive disorder when they really have bipolar disorder. It is easy to understand how misdiagnosis can occur. Some individuals (especially if they are unaware of bipolar disorder) may not recognize their manic symptoms&ndashland therefore don't report them to their doctor. They may seek a doctor's help only when they are immersed in a depressive episode.

People may experience depression as their very first episode, and they will not have a manic episode until some time in the future. Read more about the common problem of misdiagnosis.

An incorrect diagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatment. In fact, antidepressant medications can bring about a manic episode in someone who really has bipolar disorder.

Awareness about bipolar disorder is the first step to recognizing possible signs. There are excellent treatments for both depression and bipolar disorder. The key is to get a correct diagnosis.

Who is at risk for bipolar disorder?

More than three percent of US adults have bipolar disorder. The illness affects men and women equally and is found in all races and ethnic groups. People with a family history of either bipolar disorder or depression are at increased risk for bipolar disorder. It is very important to tell your doctor about any family members with a history of mental illness.