Bipolar Depression Disorder Symptoms
Bipolar depression can trigger problems at work or at school and tensions with friends and family. The risk of developing alcoholism and drug abuse is also increased. Unmanaged symptoms can also lead to feelings such as anxiety or thoughts of suicide.
In addition to periods of extreme "down" moods, a few sufferers experience manic episodes. These can include seeing, hearing or smelling things that aren't there (hallucinations) and believing things that aren't real (delusions).
1. Feelings of hopelessness or despair
Bipolar depression is characterised by feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness. In a depressive phase, one may feel down and empty, or even hopeless and may also experience feelings of guilt or a sense of worthlessness. These symptoms can make it difficult to cope with daily life and can lead to an absence of interest in activities that once brought pleasure. In severe cases, feelings of worthlessness can lead to thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
In addition to feeling worthless People who suffer from bipolar disorder are having trouble connecting to their good qualities and believe that they don't deserve to be loved. This can be especially challenging in close relationships like those with family members or romantic partners. When this happens, it's essential to get assistance from an expert in mental health, or call 911 or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to chat with a person 24 hours a day.
Sometimes, people suffering from bipolar disorder suffer from depression and mania at the same time. This is known as a mixed episode. A person may be affected by both the negative feelings that are associated with depression as well as the high levels of energy and false belief that are associated with mania simultaneously. Mania is the state of being joyful and exuberant and laughing frequently, being confident and determined, as well as having hallucinations and delusions.
A combination of therapy and medication can alleviate these symptoms. A regular sleep schedule along with a healthy diet and stress reduction techniques can be beneficial. It is important that you adhere to the treatment plan recommended by your physician since abruptly stopping treatment can trigger severe episodes. Psychotherapy (talk therapy), on the other hand can assist you to deal with issues that could be contributing to your mood fluctuations.
2. You're no longer enjoying the activities you used take pleasure in
A decrease in interest in activities that you normally enjoy is one of the most obvious signs of depression. This could be related to activities, hobbies, or spending time with family and friends. It's important to remember that depression is a real condition and it can take some time to be able to feel better. You should consult with your physician to address your symptoms.
Bipolar disorder sufferers experience intense changes in mood levels, energy levels, and activity levels. depression symptoms in men can lead to periods of feeling "up," elated, and exuberant (known as mania) to periods of feeling very "down" and sad (known as depression). Bipolar disorder mood swings can be a matter of weeks, days, or even months.
The most frequent form of depression is called major depressive disorder. It can be caused by a life-threatening incident, such as the loss of a loved one or losing your job. However, it's important to be aware that depression is different from the normal negative feelings that you might temporarily have in response to a life event. Depression is chronic, severe, and does not go away on its own.
Your doctor can treat your depression using psychotherapy or medication. Medicine can help manage your mood episodes and prevent them from occurring However, it's crucial to use your medication regularly according to the instructions of your physician. The medications for depression include antidepressants as well as mood stabilizers, like lithium. On the FDA website, you can find out more about the specific medications, including adverse effects and warnings. For some brain stimulation therapythat involves activating or reducing certain areas of the brain using magnetic waves or electricitycan help with depression.
3. Trouble concentrating
Bipolar disorder is characterized by periods of excessive energy and activity (manic episodes or "manic episodes") which are then severe depression. This can make it difficult to concentrate on work or other tasks. It can also cause issues in relationships at home and at work. Most often family and friends are the first to notice changes in someone's behavior.
A head injury or neurological issue can also make it difficult to concentrate. Anyone suffering from these issues should consult their health care provider and seek an evaluation.
It is normal to experience trouble concentrating during times, especially when stressed or tired. However, this usually lasts for a short time and improves as the individual is able to rest or becomes more relaxed. Difficulty concentrating may also be a symptom of mental illness, like depression or anxiety. It is essential to obtain an accurate diagnosis, since it will help the doctor determine the best treatment.
Researchers discovered that the difficulty in concentrating was related to trait worry, as well as all three clinical severity indices. This is in contrast to previous findings, which revealed that the difficulty in concentrating was not associated with other GAD-related symptoms when depression was statistically controlled (Joormann and Stober 1999).
Talk with your doctor if you are concerned about your concentration. A combination of medication and therapy may help. It may take months or even years to find the best treatment plan, and you'll need to follow it closely. But getting treatment as early as you can could reduce the severity of manic and depression-related episodes. It also can prevent them from recurring. You can also avoid stress by keeping a mood journal. This will help you recognize early signs and minimize or avoid stress.
4. Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
Depression can trigger feelings of self-loathing or worthlessness. Remember that these feelings don't originate from you, and they aren't your fault. If you're feeling 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, but the highs aren't as intense as the lows. You may also experience rapid changes in your mood that cause you to change from one state to another very quickly.
Symptoms of hypomania or mania include increased energy and excitement, increased irritability, increased levels of activity and false beliefs (delusions), or paranoid or irrational behaviour. In a hypomanic or manic phase it is more likely that you spend money and engage in risky behavior. If you're having trouble managing your finances, you should consider appointing someone to manage them on your behalf.
Consult your physician If you've been experiencing mood-related symptoms for more than 2 weeks. They will ask you about your symptoms, and look for signs of bipolar disorder. They may suggest keeping a chart or mood journal to check for patterns. If they suspect that you are suffering from a serious depressive or manic episode, or if you are concerned about your safety, they can refer you to your local NHS community mental health team (CMHT). Bipolar UK has a list with helpful contacts and resources.
5. Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
Bipolar depression is often difficult to identify. Talk to your doctor if feel depressed, hopeless or worthless. It could take a few months or even years before you and your doctor find the right treatment plan for you.
Bipolar disorder sufferers have distinct periods of very positive energy, euphoric and exuberant behavior (known as manic episodes) and very down, sad, indifferent or hopeless periods (known as depressive episodes). These mood fluctuations can make daily tasks difficult. These mood swings can be accompanied by feelings of irritability or impulsivity. They can also cause trouble sleeping and an increase in appetite.
These episodes can last for up to a week and may occur at regular intervals throughout your life. They can be triggered by specific events, as well as alcohol or drugs. For example stressful life events such as moving, getting married or divorced, getting an occupation or losing one can cause an episode. Drugs like amphetamines, cocaine and ecstasy can also cause an episode. Certain over-the-counter medicines like antidepressants and sleep aids, can also trigger an episode.
Bipolar disorder can cause depression that is severe and may increase the risk of suicide. Suicide is more likely to occur in people who suffer from frequent depressive episodes or mixed episodes and a family history of suicide or a young beginning of the disorder. Other risk factors are previous attempts, a drug or alcohol history, as well as a family history with psychotic disorders.
Bipolar disorder isn't curable, but you can manage the symptoms and lead a healthy lifestyle with aid of a medical professional and a treatment plan that includes therapies, medications and lifestyle modifications. Even if you feel better, it is important to stick to your treatment plan.