What is the difference between mania and depression? Why is it important to understand this difference?

          Mania and depression are both seen as pathological mood swings. Mania and depression have significant differences. Mania it is a state of abnormally high mood, with motivational, cognitive, emotional, and/or physical features (Hansell & Damour, 2008). When one's mood becomes pathologically high, it is referred to as mania. Depression is a state of abnormally low mood, with motivational, cognitive, emotional, and/or physical features (Hansell & Damour, 2008). When one's mood becomes pathologically low it is referred to as depression. In several instances mania and depression are rather the opposite of each other; however, both involve motivational, cognitive, emotional, and physical symptoms. When an individual suffers for mania, he or she can experience a manic episode. When an individual experiences a manic episode, which can last for a period of a week or longer, he or she experiences bursts of speed and energy, and are continually motivated. These symptoms can impair one's functioning and become life-threatening. When an individual suffers from depression he or she can experience a major depressive episode. When an individual experiences a depression major depressive episode, which can last for two-week or longer, he or she becomes overwhelmed by feelings of emptiness or sadness (Hansell & Damour, 2008). These symptoms can also impair one's functioning and become life-threatening.   

Reference

Hansell, J., & Damour, L. (2008). Abnormal psychology (2nd ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.