What Is The Difference Between Bipolar Affective Disorder And Depression?

The main difference between the two is that depression is unipolar, meaning that there is no “up” period, but bipolar disorder includes symptoms of mania. Patients with bipolar affective disorder suffer from both depressive swings and manic phases. They experience elated moods, increased energy levels, overspending, increased libido, racing thoughts, and grandiosity. 

According to the World Health Organisation [WHO], those who have suffered from more than one manic episode, or one manic plus one depressive episode, will be diagnosed with bipolar affective disorder. Patients suffering from unipolar depression do not typically experience manic swings.