Bipolar Depression Disorder Symptoms
Bipolar depression can cause difficulties at work or in school and can cause strained relationships with family and friends. The risk of developing alcoholism and addiction to drugs is increased. Unmanaged symptoms can also cause feelings of anger or thoughts of suicide.
In addition, to periods of extreme "down" moods, a few people experience manic episodes. These can include seeing, hearing or smelling things that aren't there (hallucinations) and believing in things that aren't real (delusions).
1. Feelings of hopelessness or a sense of worthlessness
Bipolar depression is characterised by feelings of hopelessness and desperation. In a depressive phase, a person may feel down or empty, or depressed and may also feel a sense of guilt or desperation. These symptoms can make it difficult to deal with everyday life and could lead to a lack of interest in previous activities. In extreme instances, feeling unworthy could trigger thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
People with bipolar disorder, in addition to feeling devalued and believing they aren't worthy of love, also have a difficult time connecting to their positive characteristics. This can be especially difficult in close relationships, such as those with families or romantic partners. When this happens, it's important to seek assistance from a mental health professional or contact 911 or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to speak with someone all hours of the day.
Sometimes, people with bipolar disorder experience both depression and mania at the same time. This is known as a mixed episode. In this case one may experience depression-like feelings and the energy boost and false beliefs associated with mania at the same time. Mania is the state of being happy and excited and laughing often, feeling confident and ambitious, and experiencing hallucinations and delusions.
A combination of medication and therapy can alleviate these symptoms. A regular schedule of sleep along with a healthy diet and techniques to reduce stress could also be helpful. It is crucial to stay to the treatment plan your doctor recommends, as abruptly stopping can trigger severe episodes. Psychotherapy (talk therapy), on the other hand, can help you to deal with issues that could contribute to your mood swings.
2. A decrease in interest in activities you once enjoyed
A decline in enthusiasm for activities you usually enjoy is one of the telltale signs of depression. This could be related to activities, hobbies, or time spent with family and friends. Keep in mind that depression is a chronic illness and it may take some time to feel better. It is still recommended to consult your doctor for treatment of your symptoms.
People suffering from bipolar disorder have intense mood swings, energy levels, and levels of activity. It can lead to periods where you feel "up," elated or very "up" (known by the term mania) in contrast to times when you feel "down," sad, and "down." Mood swings in bipolar disorder can be present for a few days, weeks, or even months.
The most common kind of depression is known as major depressive disorder. It can be triggered by a stressful life event, such as the death of a loved one or losing your job. It is important to understand that depression isn't like the temporary negative feelings that you might experience in response to an event. Depression is severe, persistent, and does not disappear by itself.
The use of psychotherapy or medication is recommended by your doctor to treat depression. The medication can help you manage your mood swings and may even prevent them from happening. However, you must take the medication prescribed by your physician. depression symptoms for depression include antidepressants and mood stabilizers such as lithium. You can find more details about specific medications with regard to side effects, as well as warnings on the FDA website. For some people, brain stimulation therapy -- which involves activating or blocking certain regions of the brain by using magnetic waves or electricitycan help with depression.
3. It is difficult to concentrate
A person with bipolar disorder can experience periods of extremely high energy and activity (mania or "manic" episodes) which are followed by depression that is severe. This can make it difficult to concentrate on work or other tasks. It can also create problems in relationships at home and at work. Family and friends are often the first to observe changes in a person's behavior.
Concentration problems can be a sign of a medical condition such as a head injury or neurological issue. Anyone suffering from these issues should talk to their health care provider and get an assessment.
It is normal for people to have trouble concentrating, especially when they are tired or stressed. But this is usually temporary and improves as the person finds rest or is more relaxed. A mental illness such as anxiety or depression may cause problems with concentration. It is important to get a correct diagnosis, as it will help the doctor choose the most effective treatment.
In a study that utilized self-report assessments and a sample with a diagnosis researchers discovered that difficulty in concentrating was associated with trait worry and all three indicators of severity. This is in contrast to previous findings, which showed that the difficulty in concentrating was not associated with other symptoms related to GAD when depression was statistically controlled (Joormann & Stober 1999).
If you're concerned about your concentration, talk to your doctor. A combination of medications and therapy can aid. It may be necessary to look for months or years to find the most effective treatment strategy. Early treatment can decrease the severity and frequency of depressive or manic symptoms. They can also stop them from occurring again. Other strategies for prevention include keeping a journal of your mood to identify the signs of an episode and prevent or minimize stress.
4. Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
Depression can lead to feelings of self-loathing or feeling devalued. Be aware that these feelings don't originate from you, and they aren't your responsibility. If your mood becomes severe and you have thoughts of suicide, it's a mental health emergency and you should seek treatment immediately.
Bipolar disorder can cause episodes of depression and mania. They are known as mixed episodes. During a mixed episode you may feel both low and high, however the highs aren't quite as intense as the lows. You may also experience rapid changes in your mood, which can cause you to switch from one state to the next rapidly.
The signs of hypomania or mania can include feelings of excitement and energy and irritability that is heightened, as well as heightened activity levels, false beliefs (delusions), and paranoid or irrational behaviors. In a manic or hypomanic period, you are more likely to take risks and spend money. If you're having trouble managing your finances, consider appointing a person to manage them on your behalf.
If you're experiencing mood swings lasting for 2 weeks or more, it's a great idea to speak to your doctor. They'll ask you about your symptoms and search for the signs of bipolar disorder. They might suggest keeping an account of your mood or chart to check for patterns. They may recommend you to your local NHS community mental health team (CMHT) when they suspect that you're having an extreme manic or depressive episode, or if there are concerns regarding your security. You can find a list of useful contacts and resources on the Bipolar UK website.
5. Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
Bipolar depression can be difficult to diagnose. Talk to your doctor if feel depressed, hopeless or unworthy. It may take a few months or years for you and your doctor to determine the most effective treatment plan.
Bipolar disorder sufferers have distinct periods of very up, elated and energized behavior (known as manic episodes) and also very depressed, sad, indifferent or hopeless phases (known as depression episodes). These mood swings can make it hard to carry out everyday tasks. These mood episodes can also be accompanied by feelings of irritability and impulsiveness as well as racing thoughts. These mood-related episodes can result in sleeplessness and a change of appetite.
These episodes can last for several weeks and can occur on a regular basis throughout your life. These episodes are often caused by alcohol or drugs or other life events. Stressful life events like moving, divorced or married, or even getting an entirely new job or losing an old one can trigger a psychotic episode. Cocaine, ecstasy and amphetamines are other substances that can cause an episode. As can certain over-the counter cold medications, antidepressants, sleep aids, some stimulant medications and thyroid medication.
Depression in bipolar disorder is severe and can increase the likelihood of suicide. Suicide is more likely in people who suffer from frequent depressive episodes mixed episodes and the family history of suicide or an early development of the disease. Other risk factors include previous suicide attempts, a drug or alcohol history, and a family history with psychotic disorders.
Bipolar disorder cannot be treated, but you can manage the symptoms and lead a healthy lifestyle with assistance of a good medical treatment, a treatment plan including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. It is crucial to stick with your treatment plan, even if you feel better.