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 abuse of drugs is increased. Untreated symptoms can result in feelings of anger and thoughts of suicide.
Some people also have manic episodes in addition to extreme "down" moods. These include delusions and hearing, seeing, or smelling something that's not actually there.
1. Feelings of despair or hopelessness
Feelings of despair or hopelessness are a common sign of bipolar depression. In a depressive state, a person can feel hopeless, empty, or guilt-ridden. They may also feel guilty or unworthy. These symptoms can make it difficult to manage everyday life and may lead to a loss of enthusiasm for activities that once brought enjoyment. In extreme cases, the feeling of inadequacy can lead to thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
Certain people suffering from bipolar disorder are also prone to being devalued and believing they aren't worthy of love, also have trouble connecting to their positive characteristics. This can be particularly difficult in close relationships like those with family or romantic partners. When this happens, it's important to get assistance from a mental health professional or call 911 or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to speak with someone 24/7.
Sometimes, those with bipolar disorder experience both depression and mania at the same time. This is known as a mixed episode. A person can feel both the negative emotions associated with depression and the high levels of energy and false belief that are associated with mania at the same time. Symptoms of mania can include feeling excited and happy, spending a lot of time laughing and talking and being too confident and ambitious, and having hallucinations or delusions that include seeing or hearing things that aren't there.
Combining medication and therapy can be used to combat these symptoms. A regular sleeping schedule along with a healthy diet and techniques to reduce stress could be beneficial. It is essential to stick to the treatment plan recommended by your physician because abruptly stopping it can trigger severe episodes. Psychotherapy (talk therapy), on the other hand, can help you to deal with issues that could be contributing 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 usually are interested in. This may include activities such as hobbies, work, or time spent with friends and family members. It is important to remember that depression is a real disease and it can take some time to get better. In spite of this you should continue to visit your doctor and establish an alliance of support to help manage your symptoms.
People with bipolar disorder have intense mood swings levels, energy levels, and levels of activity. This can trigger periods when you feel "up," elated or very "up" (known by the term mania) and then periods where you feel "down," sad, and "down." Bipolar disorder mood swings can last for weeks, days or even months.
The most prevalent kind of depression is known as major depression. It can be triggered by a difficult event in your life, such as losing a job or the loss of a family member. However, it's important to be aware that depression is not the same as the normal negative emotions you may experience in response to a life event. Depression is persistent and severe, and it doesn't disappear on its own.
Your doctor can treat your depression with psychotherapy or medication. Medication can help control your mood episodes and prevent them from occurring However, it's crucial to use your medication regularly as prescribed by your physician. Medications for depression include antidepressants and mood stabilizers such as lithium. On the FDA website, you can find out more about the specific medications, including adverse effects and warnings. Certain individuals can benefit from a treatment called brain stimulation that uses electrical or magnetic waves to stimulate or block certain areas of their brain.
3. It is difficult to concentrate
A person suffering from bipolar disorder experiences periods of unusually high energy and activity (mania or "manic" episodes) which are followed by a severe depression. This can make it difficult to focus on work or other activities. It can also cause issues at home and in relationships. Friends and family members are often the first to notice a change in a person’s behavior.
Concentration problems can be an indication of a medical issue, like a head injury, or neurological problem. Patients suffering from these issues should talk to their doctor and get an evaluation.
It is normal for people to experience trouble concentrating, especially when they are tired or stressed. However, this usually lasts for a short time and gets better as the person gets rest or calmer. A mental illness such as depression or anxiety can also cause difficulty concentrating. physiological symptoms of depression to get an accurate diagnosis since it will help the doctor determine the best treatment.
In a study that used self-report assessments and a diagnosed sample, researchers found that difficulty concentrating was associated with trait worry and all three indicators of severity. This is different than previous studies, which found that the difficulty in concentrating was not associated with other symptoms of GAD when depression was statistically controlled (Joormann & Stober 1999).
Talk with your doctor if are worried about your concentration. A combination of medications and therapy can help. It may be necessary to search for months or even years to find the best treatment plan. However, seeking treatment as early as possible can reduce the severity of manic or depressive episodes. It can also stop them from returning. You can also prevent stress by keeping a journal of your mood. This will allow you spot early signs and reduce or avoid stress.
4. Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
The depressive lows that are so intense can be associated with feelings of self-doubt and deprivation. It is important to remember that these feelings aren't your fault and that you aren't worthy of these feelings. If you're feeling depressed and are contemplating self-harm you must seek immediate help.
Bipolar disorder can trigger episodes of depression and mania. These are called mixed episodes. You might experience both lows and highs However, the highs will be less intense than the lows. There are also rapid mood fluctuations, causing you to change between states.
The signs of hypomania or mania can include feelings of excitement and energy as well as increased irritability, higher activity levels and false beliefs (delusions) and paranoid or irrational behavior. During a manic or hypomanic phase it is more likely that you spend money and engage in risky behaviour. If you're having trouble managing your finances, it's a great idea to make a lasting power of attorney to appoint someone to manage them for you.
Consult your physician when you've experienced mood swings for more than two weeks. They'll inquire about your symptoms and look for the symptoms of bipolar disorder. They might suggest keeping an account of your mood or chart to look for patterns. They may recommend you to your local NHS community mental health team (CMHT) if they think that you're having serious depressive or manic episode, or if there are concerns regarding your safety. Bipolar UK has a list of useful contacts and information.
5. Feelings of hopelessness or despair
Bipolar depression can be difficult to recognize. It is important to tell your doctor about any feelings of sadness, hopelessness or a sense of worthlessness you feel. It could take months or years for you and your doctor to find the best treatment plan.
Bipolar disorder is characterised by extreme elation, excitement, and energy (known collectively as manic episodes) as well as periods of extreme sadness, hopelessness and apathy (known collectively as depression episodes). These mood fluctuations can make daily tasks more difficult. These mood changes can be associated with feelings of anger or impulsiveness, as well as racing thoughts. They can also lead to trouble sleeping and an increase in appetite.
These episodes can last for a week or longer and occur at regular intervals in your life. They may be triggered by certain circumstances and alcohol or drugs. For instance, stressful life events like moving or getting divorced, getting an occupation or losing one can cause an episode. Cocaine, ecstasy and amphetamines are also substances that can trigger an episode. Some over-the-counter medications, such as antidepressants and sleep aids, could cause an episode.
Depression in bipolar disorder is severe and increases the likelihood of suicide. Suicide is more frequent in people with frequent depressive episodes, a mixed episode, the history of suicide or early development. Other risk factors are previous suicide attempts, a drug or alcohol history, as well as an extended family history of psychotic disorders.
There isn't a cure for bipolar disorder. However, with proper medical treatment and a treatment plan that includes treatment, medication and lifestyle changes, you can manage your symptoms and live a healthy life. It is essential to stay to your treatment plan even when you feel better.