Bipolar Depression Disorder Symptoms

People with bipolar depression may be unable to stay at school or work, strained relationships with family members and friends and an increased risk of alcohol and drug abuse. Unmanaged symptoms can also result in feelings of anger and thoughts of suicide.

In addition, to periods of extreme "down" moods, a few people experience manic episodes. These may include experiencing, hearing or smelling things that aren't there (hallucinations) and believing in things that aren't true (delusions).

1. Feelings of despair or hopelessness

Bipolar depression is characterized by feelings of despair and worthlessness. In a depressive state the person may feel hopeless, empty, or guilty. They may feel depressed or guilt-ridden. These symptoms of clinical depression can make it hard to deal with everyday life and can lead to a lack of interest in previous activities. In extreme cases, the feeling of inadequacy can lead to thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

In addition to feeling unworthy People who suffer from bipolar disorder have difficulty connecting to their strengths and believe they don't deserve to be loved. This can be especially challenging in relationships with close people, such as those with friends or romantic partners. It's important to seek help from a mental health professional or call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for 24/7 assistance.

Bipolar disorder can trigger depression and mania at the same time. This is known as a mixed episode. In this instance one may experience depression-like symptoms and the high energy and false perceptions associated with mania simultaneously. Symptoms of mania can include feeling happy and joyful, spending lots of time laughing and talking and being excessively confident and ambitious and experiencing hallucinations or delusions, which involve seeing or hearing things that aren't there.

Combining medication and therapy can help treat these ailments. A regular sleep schedule, healthy diet, and techniques to reduce stress could be beneficial. It is important to stick with the treatment plan that your doctor recommends, as abruptly stopping your treatment can trigger severe episodes. Psychotherapy (talk therapy), on the other hand can help you deal with issues that could be contributing to your mood fluctuation.

2. You've lost interest in activities that you used to enjoy

Depression is manifests itself in a lack of interest in the activities that you usually like to do. This can include hobbies, work or just spending time with friends and family. Remember that depression is an illness and it may take some time to feel better. In spite of this, you should still see your doctor and create a support network to help manage your symptoms.

People with bipolar disorder experience intense changes in mood as well as energy levels and activity levels. This can trigger periods when you feel "up," elated or very "up" (known by the term mania), to periods when you feel "down," sad, and "down." Mood swings in bipolar disorder can last for weeks, days or even months.

The most common type of depression is major depressive disorder. It can be caused by a stressful event that has occurred in your life, like losing your job or the loss of a family member. It is important to be aware that depression is distinct from the normal negative feelings that you might temporarily have in response to an event in your life. Depression is a long-lasting, severe condition and doesn't disappear by itself.

Your doctor may treat your depression with medication or psychotherapy. Medication can help control your mood swings and prevent them from occurring, but it's important to take your medications consistently according to the prescriptions of your physician. Medications for depression include antidepressants and mood stabilizers, such as lithium. You can find more details about specific medications, including side effects and warnings, on the FDA website. For some, brain stimulation therapy -- which involves activating or blocking certain regions of the brain using magnetic waves or electricity- can also help with depression.

3. Trouble concentrating

A person suffering from bipolar disorder has periods of extremely high energy and activity (mania or "manic" episodes) that are followed by a severe depression. This can make it difficult to concentrate on work or other activities. It can also lead to issues at home or in relationships. Most often, family and friends are the first to notice changes in someone's behavior.

A head injury or neurological issue can cause problems with concentration. If you have these symptoms, it is crucial to talk to your doctor for an assessment.

It is normal for people to have trouble concentrating, especially when they are tired or stressed. This is temporary and usually improves after a person relaxes or is more calm. A mental illness such as anxiety or depression can result in difficulty concentrating. It is important to get a correct diagnosis, as it will help the doctor decide on the most effective treatment.

Researchers discovered that the difficulty in concentrating was connected to trait anxiety, and all three clinical severity indicators. This is in contrast to previous findings that showed difficulties in concentrating were not associated with other GAD symptoms once depression was controlled statistically (Joormann and Stober 1999).

If you're worried about your concentration, speak with your doctor. Combining medication with therapy could be beneficial. It can take months or even years to find the most effective treatment plan and you'll have to follow it with care. Early treatment can reduce the severity and frequency of depressive or manic episodes. They can also prevent them from recurring. You can also reduce stress by keeping a mood diary. This will help you recognize early signs of feeling down and help you to reduce or eliminate stress.

4. Feelings of guilt, shame and a sense of inadequacy

Depression can trigger feelings of self-loathing or worthlessness. It's important to remember that these feelings aren't your fault and that you aren't worthy of them. If your mood becomes intense and you're thinking of suicide, it's a mental health emergency and you should seek treatment immediately.

Bipolar disorder can cause episodes of depression and mania. These are known as mixed episodes. You may experience both lows and highs however the highs are less intense than the lows. There are also rapid mood swings, which can cause you to change from one state to another.

The signs of hypomania or mania can include feelings of excitement and energy and irritability that is heightened, as well as heightened activity levels and false beliefs (delusions) and paranoid or irrational behaviour. During a hypomanic or manic period, you're more likely to gamble and spend money. If you're having difficulty managing your finances, think about appointing someone to handle 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 psychological physical signs of being depressed of depression (try Sciencewiki) of bipolar disorder. They may recommend that you keep a mood journal or chart to identify patterns. If they feel that you are having a serious depressive or manic episode, or if they have concerns about your safety, they could refer you to the local NHS community mental healthcare team (CMHT). You can find a list helpful contacts and information on the Bipolar UK website.

5. Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness

Bipolar depression is often difficult to identify. Inform your doctor if you feel depressed, hopeless or unworthy. It could take a few months or years for you and your doctor to find the best treatment plan.

People with bipolar disorder have distinct periods of very up energy, euphoric and exuberant behavior (known as manic episodes) and very down sad, indifferent, or hopeless phases (known as depression episodes). These mood changes can make daily tasks more difficult. These mood swings can be accompanied by feelings of irritability or 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 may occur on a regular basis throughout your life. These episodes are often caused by alcohol or drugs or other life events. For example stressful life events such as moving or getting divorced, obtaining an employment or losing it can cause an episode. Cocaine, ecstasy and amphetamines are other substances that can trigger an episode. Certain over-the-counter medicines like antidepressants or sleep aids, could trigger an episode.

Bipolar disorder can cause depression that is severe and can increase the risk of suicide. Suicide is more likely for people who suffer from frequent depressive episodes mixed episodes or an extended family history of suicide or an early development of the illness. Other risk factors are previous attempts, a drug or alcohol history, and a family history with psychotic disorders.

There is no known cure for bipolar disorder, but with proper medical treatment and a treatment plan that includes treatment, medication and lifestyle modifications, you can manage your symptoms and live a the life you want to live. It is important to stick with your treatment plan, even if you feel better.