Mania Vs. Depression

Mania and depression are two distinct mood episodes that are characterized by specific symptoms in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Mental health professionals refer to this manual when diagnosing mood episodes or disorders. Mania and depression can fluctuate over a period of time and cause dysfunction in individuals. When this happens, a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is typically considered. Bipolar disorder is a treatable conditions and seeking help will relieve distressing symptoms.

Mania

During an episode of mania, you will experience heightened levels of energy, grandiosity, increased talking, impulsive behavior, racing thoughts, easy distraction, abnormally high periods of creativity and over-involvement in pleasure-seeking activities that may involve risk. Rational thinking is disturbed by little to no sleep and possible psychotic symptoms can occur during mania phases. Furthermore, you may get involved in high-risk activities that could include indiscriminate sexual behavior, excessive spending or gambling.

Depression

Depression includes feeling sad, empty or guilty nearly every day with loss of pleasure, diminished interest, lethargy, changes in sleep or appetite and suicidal thoughts, plans or gestures. Functioning is impaired by mood disturbance, motivation and concentration problems that are characteristic of this condition.

Similarities

Experiencing both manic and depressive episodes is grounds for the diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Mania and major depression are both diagnosed based on symptoms that are identified largely in part of extreme changes in a person's mood. Psychotic features such as auditory or visual hallucinations can be part of the diagnostic criteria of both mania and depression. Severe agitation and irritability can be recognized in both conditions.

Differences

Distinguishing between mania and depression is not difficult because the episodes are at opposite ends of the mood spectrum. Mania is usually experienced as an array of positive symptoms, feeling elated and on top of the world. Major depression consists of feeling sad and empty. Mania is associated with high energy levels and risky behavior, while a person suffering major depression is usually drained of energy.

Treatment

Treating both mania and depression may require a mood stabilizer, anticonvulsant or antipsychotic medication. These drugs work to prevent the extreme mood swings that are characteristic of manic and depressive episodes. Psychotherapy or counseling can also be helpful in enhancing awareness of the conditions and teaching skills that will help a person identify if they are at risk for undergoing a manic or depressive episode. Keeping a consistent routine in sleeping habits, proper nutrition and exercise will also help in stabilization of mood.

References

• Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Revised
• Black Dog Institute