Both are considered Mood Disorders. And the current trend is to treat them alike in a lot of ways. I would say for me personally since I'm bi-polar2 and maybe speak for other BP2's is that one big noticeable difference is the Sleep factor. That's what I would consider an important marker. Now I'm not psych doc so don't go on what I say. But if really want to get better, it's best to tell the truth and all of the truth. I didn't and it certainly cost me more than I could have ever imagined. And please don't live in denial about any of your behavior's. The best book I have ever read is Bi Polar 2 by Ronald Fieve. It sounded like he wrote that book specifically about my life. Here's wishing you all the best.