Unipolar and Bipolar
Depression PaperNuewana Fultz8/15/2015PSY/270Debbi KutnerUniversity of PhoenixUnipolar and Bipolar There is often a confusion between Unipolar Depression and Bipolar Disorder Depression due to the fact they share the same symptoms of sadness, hopelessness, pessimism; anxiety and sleep problems; although Unipolar Depression and Bipolar Depression take very different directions. It is important that we are able to tell them apart and understand the differences in diagnosing and treating these disorders. Making an inaccurate diagnosis can result in making the disorder worse. There are two types of mood disorders: Unipolar Depression and Bipolar Disorder. It is believed both are genetic disorders and they share many of the same symptoms. These disorders differ in treatments, and some of the symptoms are also different. Both can be very severe and carry a risk of suicide. Unipolar Depression Unipolar depression is a mood disorder that is categorized by depression without mania. Depression and mania are the opposite of each other; depression is a state of sadness that one is overcome by all
of life’s challenges, whereas mania is when one is on a state of elation and has extravagant beliefs that the world is theirs. Unipolar can be brought on by many different types of circumstances one experiences chemically or in life’s experiences. Symptoms Symptoms of unipolar differ from person to person yet they will affect these five areas of functions: emotional, motivational, behavioral, cognitive, and physical. An individual will emotionally feel empty inside and experience little pleasure. They will also be despondent and lose their sense of humor. They can experience anxiety, irritation, and distress. Along with these symptoms, crying spells are very likely. One can and may lose their desire or enthusiasm to still participate in their usual day to day activities. Some individuals have to force themselves to continue doing even the simplest activities of daily living. They will most likely wish to be left alone, even by family and prefer solitude to being surrounded by others even those who care and wish to help. Thoughts of suicide can and often do occur.