What is the difference between bipolar...

[louis h]

...disorder and severe insomnia? Is there a difference? Aren't the symptoms alike? thanks

[Twisty]

As far as I know, bipolar disorder is like manic depression involving mood swings. I think the other condition you're talking about is terminal insomnia, which is more like dementia in it's symptoms and is passed on genetically, having nothing to do with ordinary insomnia.

[pat K]

Bipolar disorder is characterized by severe mood swings, between being manic and grandiose and being seriously depressed. It is a serious psychiatric condition and is usually treated with medication (e.g. lithium) and some psychotherapy. The condition may persist for years but may be controlled to some extent with the medication. Severe insomnia may be one symptom of this disease but is not the same since it does not include the full range of symptoms of a bipolar disorder. However persistent insomnia can temporarily generate extreme emotional symptoms such as depression, anxiety, mood swings, and even hallucinations and delusions such as paranoia. These symptoms, though, are temporary and should disappear once the person gets sufficient sleep.