Is it Schizophrenia or Bipolar Disorder?

Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder are two very serious mental illnesses that plague many people every day. These two disorders are very similar in nature, but they are also quite different. 

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, these two illnesses are defined as the following: 

• Schizophrenia is defined as a serious mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. People with schizophrenia may seem as though they have lost touch with reality, which can be distressing for them and for their family and friends.
• Bipolar disorder is (formerly called manic-depressive illness or manic depression) a mental disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, concentration, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks.

There are three types:

• • Bipolar I Disorder— defined by manic episodes that last at least 7 days, or by manic symptoms that are so severe that the person needs immediate hospital care. Usually, depressive episodes occur as well, typically lasting at least 2 weeks. Episodes of depression with mixed features (having depressive symptoms and manic symptoms at the same time) are also possible.
  • Bipolar II Disorder— defined by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, but not the full-blown manic episodes that are typical of Bipolar I Disorder.
  • Cyclothymic Disorder (also called Cyclothymia)— defined by periods of hypomanic symptoms as well as periods of depressive symptoms lasting for at least 2 years (1 year in children and adolescents). However, the symptoms do not meet the diagnostic requirements for a hypomanic episode and a depressive episode.

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People with Bipolar disorder can have psychotic symptoms and experience delusions the way people with schizophrenia can.

While a lot of symptoms overlap, a person can have both, which makes a diagnosis more difficult to have.

The overlapping symptoms of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia include psychotic episodes, disorganized thinking and symptoms of depression.

The biggest difference between the two is the notable highs and lows of bipolar disorder characterized by mania (and hypomania) and then depression.

The cycles usually continue for extended periods of time and can even mix.

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Schizophrenia on the other hand is normally characterized by delusions, hallucinations and abnormal behavior. 

Once a diagnosis is properly received, treatment can begin.

If you notice you have any of these symptoms, talk to a mental health provider to see what the best course of action will be.