What is the difference between OCD and mild depression bipolar disorder?

OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) and bipolar disorder are two distinct mental illnesses with different symptoms, causes, and treatments.

OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). People with OCD may have obsessions about contamination, perfection, symmetry, or harm. Compulsions may include washing, checking, repeating, or hoarding. OCD can cause significant distress and interfere with daily life.

Bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of mania or hypomania and episodes of depression. During manic or hypomanic episodes, people may experience elevated mood, increased energy, racing thoughts, decreased need for sleep, impulsive behavior, and poor judgment. During depressive episodes, people may experience low mood, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. Bipolar disorder can also cause significant distress and interfere with daily life.

Mild depression bipolar disorder is a type of bipolar disorder in which the depressive episodes are mild and the manic or hypomanic episodes are brief and infrequent. Mild depression bipolar disorder is often misdiagnosed as unipolar depression.

The main difference between OCD and mild depression bipolar disorder is the presence of mania or hypomania in bipolar disorder. People with OCD do not experience mania or hypomania.