How Is Bipolar Disorder Different From Unipolar Depression Or 'Regular' Depression?

Dr. Roy Perlis answers the question: 'Bipolar Disorder & 'Regular' Depression?'

ByABC News
February 28, 2008, 12:18 PM

— -- Question: How is bipolar disorder different from unipolar depression or 'regular' depression?

Answer: Both bipolar disorder and major depression are typically associated with depressive episodes. So both illnesses are accompanied by depressions. The difference is that in bipolar disorder people also have periods of elevation -- or severe irritability. We call these manic or hypomanic episodes.

Next: What Is Mixed And Dysphoric Mania?

Previous: What Are The Different Subtypes Of Bipolar Disorder?