The term unipolar means that this form of depression does not cycle through other mental states, such as mania. This is how unipolar depression differs from bipolar conditions, as in contrast, bipolar conditions cause periods of both depression and mania. However, having unipolar depression does not mean that a person is depressed at all times.

The term “unipolar,” which comes from the roots “uni” (one) and “polar” (end), means you have symptoms from only one end of the mood spectrum. This sits in direct contrast to bipolar disorder, where you may experience both low mood states, or periods of depression, and high mood states, or periods of mania or hypomania.

Unipolar depression is also known as major depressive disorder. “Unipolar” refers to the fact that this type of depression does not cycle through other mental states, such as mania. Treatment for unipolar depression includes psychotherapy and medication. Major depression is one of the most common mental conditions in the United States.

Unipolar refers to the idea that there is only one “pole,” or side, to your abnormal mood state. In bipolar depression, there are two poles: mania and depression. If you’re not sure which type of depression you have, talk to your doctor, psychiatrist, or mental health counselor before diagnosing yourself.

While bipolar depression refers to frequent mood changes between depression and mania, the focal point of unipolar depression is the negative emotions and feelings that an affected individual experiences. The unipolar designation indicates that the depression does not alter between the two mood states.