PAPD Vs. Bipolar

Passive-aggressive personality disorder (PAPD) and bipolar disorder share a number of symptoms but are distinct mental health conditions. Pronounced differences are observed in causation, diagnosis, and treatment of PAPD and bipolar.
  1. Bipolar Causes

    • The National Mental Health Information Center reports bipolar disorder is caused by chemical imbalances in the brain which may be improved or worsened by environmental factors.

    PAPD Causes

    • The Mayo Clinic explains PAPD is largely the result of environment during developmental years, but genetics may predispose individuals to the disorder.

    Bipolar Diagnosis

    • The National Institute of Mental Health states doctors compare a patient's symptoms to those outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health (DSM) to diagnose bipolar disorder.

    PAPD Diagnosis

    • Many experts still consider PAPD a legitimate disorder, but the US National Library of Medicine tells us that passive-aggressive personality disorder is no longer a clinical diagnosis included in the DSM.

    Treatment

    • The US National Library of Medicine recommends long-term therapy to treat PAPD. The National Institute of Mental Health reports bipolar disorder is managed with medication.

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