Bipolar Depression Disorder Symptoms
Bipolar depression can lead to difficulties at work or school and can cause strained relationships with family and friends. The risk of developing alcoholism and addiction to drugs is increased. Untreated symptoms can also result in feelings of anger and thoughts of suicide.
In addition to periods of extreme "down" moods, some people have manic episodes. These can include being able to sense, hear or smell things that aren't there (hallucinations) and believing in things that aren't true (delusions).
1. Feelings of hopelessness or despair
Feelings of desperation or despair are a typical symptom of bipolar depression. During a depressive phase the person may feel empty, hopeless, or guilt-ridden. They may feel depressed or guilt-ridden. These symptoms can make it difficult to cope with daily life and can result in a loss of interest in activities that were enjoyable previously. In extreme cases, the feeling of a lack of value can trigger thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
In addition to feeling worthless Some people who suffer from bipolar disorder are having trouble connecting to their strengths and believe they aren't worthy of being loved. This can be especially challenging when it comes to relationships that are intimate, such as those with family members or romantic partners. When this happens, it's important to seek out assistance from a mental health professional, or call 911 or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to talk to someone all hours of the day.
Sometimes, people with bipolar disorder have depression and mania simultaneously. This is referred to as a mixed episode. During this time one may experience depression-like feelings and the energy boost and false beliefs that are associated with mania simultaneously. The signs of mania are being happy and excited and spending much of the time laughing and talking as well as being excessively confident and ambitious and experiencing hallucinations, delusions or hallucinations, which involve hearing or seeing things that aren't there.
Combining medication and therapy can be used to combat these ailments. Techniques to reduce stress including a healthy diet, and a regular sleeping routine can also help. It is crucial to stay with the treatment plan that your doctor prescribes, since abruptly stopping can trigger severe episodes. In addition, psychotherapy (talk therapy) can help you work through the issues that are the cause of your mood swings.
2. You don't want to participate in the activities you used to take pleasure in
Depression is characterized by a loss of enthusiasm for the activities you normally are interested in. This could include work, hobbies or spending time with your family and friends. Be aware that depression is a serious illness that can take a while to recover. In spite of this you should continue to visit your doctor and build an alliance of support to manage your symptoms.
Bipolar disorder sufferers experience intense changes in mood, energy levels, and activity levels. It can lead to periods where you feel "up," elated or energized, or extremely "up" (known by the term mania) and then periods where you feel "down," sad, and "down." Bipolar disorder mood swings may last for weeks, days or even months.
The most frequent type of depression is major depressive disorder. It can be caused by a difficult life event, such as the death of a loved one or losing your job. It's important to note that depression isn't the same as the short-term negative feelings you may experience in response to an event. Depression is permanent, severe, and doesn't go away on its own.
Your doctor can treat your depression with medication or psychotherapy. Medicine can help manage your mood episodes and stop them from happening, but it's important to use your medication regularly according to the prescriptions of your physician. Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, such as lithium, and other medications are often prescribed to treat depression. There is more information about specific medications with regard to side effects, as well as warnings, on the FDA website. For some, brain stimulation therapy -- which involves activating or inhibiting certain areas of the brain by using magnetic waves or electricity- can also help with depression.
3. Trouble concentrating
A person with bipolar disorder can experience periods of extreme energy and activity (mania or "manic" episodes) that are followed by a severe depression. This can make it difficult to focus on work or other tasks. It can also create problems at home, as well as in relationships. Friends and family members are often the first to observe changes in a person's behavior.
A head injury or neurological issue can also cause difficulty concentrating. Patients suffering from these issues need to talk to their physician and receive a diagnosis.
It is normal for people to have difficulties concentrating, especially when they are tired or stressed. But this is usually temporary and gets better as the person finds rest or is more relaxed. Mental illness like depression or anxiety can also result in difficulty concentrating. It is essential to obtain an accurate diagnosis because it will help the doctor determine the best treatment.
Researchers found that the difficulty in concentrating was connected to trait worry, and all three clinical severity indicators. This is different from earlier studies that indicated that difficulty in concentrating was not associated with other GAD symptoms after depression was controlled statistically (Joormann and Stober, 1999).
Speak with your doctor if you are worried about your concentration. Combining medication with therapy can be beneficial. It could take months or even years to find the best treatment plan, and you'll need to follow it with care. But seeking treatment as soon as possible can reduce the severity of manic or depressive episodes. They can also stop them from recurring. You can also avoid stress by keeping a journal of your mood. This will allow you recognize early signs and reduce or eliminate stress.
4. Feelings of guilt, shame or deprivation
Depression can lead to feelings of self-loathing or worthlessness. It's important to remember these feelings aren't the fault of you and that you aren't worthy of them. If you're depressed and have thoughts of self-harm, you should seek immediate help.
Bipolar disorder can trigger episodes of depression and mania. These are referred to as mixed episodes. In a mixed episode, you might 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, causing you to change from one state to the next quickly.
The signs of hypomania or mania include increased energy and excitement and irritability, as well as increased levels of activity and impulsive behavior, false beliefs (delusions) or paranoid or irrational behavior. When you're in a manic or hypomanic phase you are more likely to spend money and engage in risky behaviour. If you're having trouble managing your finances, it's a good idea to make a lasting power of attorney that appoints someone to manage them for you.
Talk to your doctor if you experience mood symptoms for more than 2 weeks. They'll ask about your symptoms and search for the signs of bipolar disorder. They may recommend keeping an account of your mood or chart to identify patterns. They may refer you to your local NHS community mental health team (CMHT) if they think that you're having an extreme manic or depressive episode, or if there are concerns about your security. Bipolar UK has a list with helpful contacts and resources.
5. Feelings of hopelessness or despair
Bipolar depression can be difficult to diagnose. It is crucial to inform your doctor about any feelings of despair, sadness or feelings of utter despair that you are experiencing. It could take a few months or years for you and your physician to determine the most effective treatment plan.
People suffering from bipolar disorder experience distinct periods of very positive, elated and energized behavior (known as manic episodes) and very down sad, indifferent, or hopeless phases (known as depressive episodes). These mood swings can make everyday tasks difficult. These mood changes can be associated with feelings of anger and impulsiveness as well as racing thoughts. These mood episodes can also result in sleeplessness and a change of appetite.
These episodes can last for several weeks and may occur at regular intervals throughout your life. They can be triggered by specific events and drugs or alcohol. For symptoms of depression and anxiety -inducing life events like moving, getting married or divorced, finding an occupation or losing one can trigger an episode. Drugs like amphetamines, cocaine, and ecstasy can also cause an episode. Certain prescription medications like antidepressants or sleep aids, can also cause an episode.
Bipolar disorder depression can be severe and is correlated with an increased risk of suicide. Suicide is more likely for people who have frequent depressive episodes, mixed episodes or an extended family history of suicide or early beginning of the disorder. Other risk factors include previous suicide attempts, a drug or alcohol history, and the family history of psychotic disorders.
There isn't a cure for bipolar disorder. However, with good medical care and an effective treatment plan that incorporates treatment, medication and lifestyle changes you can manage your symptoms and live a an active and healthy life. Even even if you feel better it is essential to stick to your treatment plan.