What to do if i have severe depression. could i have bipolar as most of the family members have it?

Genetics: While it is true that depression and bipolar mood disorders to tend to cluster within families and place an individual at greater risk for these disorders, in order to be diagnosed with a bipolar mood disorder, one has to have also experienced manic or hypomanic episodes (the "up" side). A psychologist or counselor may be able to discuss your symptoms with you to determine an accurate diagnosis.

You might...: If you have severe depression & it runs in your family, you might have it. Are you on medication? Talk to your therapist or prescribing physician & they can help you decide whether you are suffering from depression or bipolar. Have you ever had a "manic" episode?

Agree w earlier: input.It is possible that you could be demonstrating a depressive episode and have not yet experienced or recgonized that there was hypomania or mania at some point. Bottom line is that your risk is elevated for bipolar spectrum disorders if you have 1st degree relatives with it. However, it could be that you are experiencing severe unipolar depression. Seek comprehensive psychiatric evaluation.