What is the link between bipolar disorder and depression?

Depression is a core part of bipolar disorder, as individuals experience major depressive episodes alongside manic or hypomanic episodes. This makes bipolar disorder different from unipolar depression, which does not include mania.

Bipolar depression can be more severe, with higher risks of suicidal thoughts and difficulty functioning. Because symptoms overlap with major depressive disorder, misdiagnosis is common.

Correct diagnosis is important for effective treatment, as antidepressants alone may worsen bipolar symptoms without mood stabilisers.

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