Bipolar Depression Disorder Symptoms
Bipolar patients may be unable to stay at school or work and have trouble establishing relationships with friends and family members, and an increased risk of drug and alcohol abuse. Unmanaged symptoms can also result in feelings of anger and thoughts of suicide.
Some people also experience manic episodes in addition to extreme "down" moods. They can be characterized by experiencing, hearing or smelling things that aren't there (hallucinations) and believing things that aren't (delusions).
1. Feelings of despair or hopelessness
Feelings of despair or hopelessness are a typical symptom of bipolar depression. In a depressive state one may feel hopeless, empty, or guilty. They might feel depressed or guilt-ridden. These symptoms can make it difficult to manage daily life and can cause the loss of enthusiasm for activities that once brought satisfaction. In extreme cases, the feeling of inadequacy can lead to thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
In addition to feeling worthless People who suffer from bipolar disorder have difficulty connecting to their strengths and believe they aren't worthy of being loved. This is especially challenging in relationships with close people, such as those with parents or romantic partners. When this happens, it's essential to get help from an expert in mental health, or call 911 or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to talk to someone all hours of the day.
Sometimes, those with bipolar disorder experience both depression and mania simultaneously. This is called a mixed episode. During this time one may experience depression-like symptoms and the energy boost and false beliefs that are associated with mania at the same time. Mania is the state of being enthusiastic and happy and laughing a lot, being overconfident and determined, as well as having hallucinations or illusions.
A combination of therapy and medication can alleviate these symptoms. A regular schedule of sleep as well as a healthy diet and stress reduction techniques can be beneficial. It is essential to adhere with the treatment plan that your doctor recommends, as abruptly stopping treatment can trigger serious episodes. Psychotherapy (talk therapy), however, can help you to deal with issues that could contribute to your mood fluctuation.
2. A decrease in interest in activities you used to enjoy
Depression is manifests itself in a lack of interest in the activities you normally like to do. This could be due to activities like work, hobbies, or spending time with friends and family members. Remember that depression is an illness and it can take time to feel better. However you should continue to visit your doctor and create a support network to manage your symptoms.
Bipolar disorder is characterized by intense mood swings, changes in energy and levels of activity. This can cause periods of feeling "up," elated, and excited (known as mania) to periods of feeling extremely "down" and sad (known as depression). The mood swings of bipolar disorder can last for weeks, days or even months.
Major depression is the most common form of depression. It can be triggered by a stressful life occasion, like the loss of a loved one, or losing your job. It is important to understand that depression isn't the same as the short-term negative feelings you may experience in response to an event. Depression is persistent, severe, and does not disappear by itself.
Your doctor can treat your depression with psychotherapy or medication. The medication can help you manage your mood disorders and may even prevent them from occurring. However, you must take the medication prescribed by your doctor. Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, such as lithium and others can be prescribed for 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 reducing certain areas of the brain using electricity or magnetic waves -- can also help with depression.
3. Difficulty concentrating
A person suffering from bipolar disorder experiences periods of extremely high energy and activity (mania or "manic" episodes) that are followed by a severe depression. This can make it hard to concentrate on work or other activities. It can also create problems at home, as well as in relationships. Most often, family and friends are the first to notice changes in a person's behavior.
A head injury or neurological problem can cause problems with concentration. If you have these symptoms, it's crucial to talk to your physician and obtain an assessment.
It is normal to have difficulty concentrating at times when you are stressed or tired. However, this is usually temporary and gets better as the person finds rest or is more calm. physiological symptoms of depression like anxiety or depression may cause difficulty concentrating. It is crucial to get an accurate diagnosis as it can help the doctor determine the best treatment.
In a study that utilized self-report measures as well as a diagnosed sample researchers discovered that difficulty in concentrating was associated with trait worry as well as the three indices of clinical severity. This is in contrast to previous findings that showed difficulty in concentrating was not associated with other GAD symptoms when depression was statistically controlled (Joormann and Stober 1999).
If you're worried about your concentration, talk to your doctor. A combination of medication and therapy may assist. You may have to search for months or even years to find the best treatment plan. But seeking treatment as soon as possible can reduce the severity of manic and depression-related episodes. They can also prevent the occurrence from happening again. Other prevention strategies include keeping a journal of your mood to identify the signs of an episode and avoid or minimize stress.
4. Feelings of guilt or a sense of inadequacy
Depression can trigger feelings of self-loathing or worthlessness. It's important to remember that these feelings aren't the fault of you and that you don't deserve these feelings. If your mood becomes severe and you have thoughts of suicide, it's an emergency in your mental health and you should seek help immediately.
Some people who suffer from bipolar disorder experience episodes of both depression and mania. They are known as mixed episodes. During a mixed episode you might experience both low and high, however, the highs aren't as intense as the lows. You may also experience rapid mood changes, causing you to change from one state into another.
Symptoms of hypomania or mania include an increase in energy and enthusiasm, increased irritability, increased levels of activity, false beliefs (delusions), or paranoid or irrational behavior. In a manic or hypomanic period, you're more likely to take risks and spend money. If you're having trouble managing your finances, you should consider appointing someone to manage them on your behalf.
Speak to your doctor if you experience mood symptoms for more than 2 weeks. They'll inquire about your symptoms and look for symptoms of bipolar disorder. They might suggest that you keep a mood journal or chart to identify patterns. If they believe you are experiencing a severe manic or depressive episode or if you have concerns about your safety, they may refer you to your local NHS community mental healthcare team (CMHT). Bipolar UK has a list with useful contacts and resources.
5. Feelings of despair or worthlessness
Bipolar depression is often difficult to diagnose. Tell your doctor if you feel depressed, hopeless or worthless. It could take months or years for you and your physician to come up with the most effective treatment plan.
Bipolar disorder is characterised by extreme elation, excitement and energy (known collectively as manic episodes) as well as periods of extreme sadness, despair and apathy (known collectively as depression episodes). These mood fluctuations can make daily tasks difficult. These mood changes can be accompanied with feelings of anger and impulsivity. They can also lead to trouble sleeping and an increase in appetite.
These episodes can last for up to a week and occur on a regular basis in your life. They may be triggered by certain circumstances and alcohol or drugs. Life events that stress you, like moving, divorced or married, or obtaining an entirely new job or losing your old one can trigger a psychotic episode. Cocaine, ecstasy, and amphetamines are also drugs that can trigger an episode. Some over-the-counter medications like antidepressants or sleep aids, can also cause an episode.
Bipolar disorder depression can be severe and is linked to an increased risk of suicide. Suicide is more likely in those who experience frequent depressive episodes mixed episodes, a family history of suicide or early development of the illness. Other risk factors include previous attempts, a substance or alcohol history, and an extended family history of psychotic disorders.
There isn't a cure for bipolar disorder, however with good medical care and a treatment plan that includes therapies, medications and lifestyle modifications, you can manage your symptoms and live the life you want to live. It is essential to stay to your treatment plan even when you feel better.