Bipolar Depression Disorder Symptoms
People with bipolar depression may experience difficulty staying at school or at work as well as strained 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.
In addition to the periods of extreme "down" moods, a few people have manic episodes. These can include experiencing, hearing or smelling things that aren't there (hallucinations) and believing in things that aren't true (delusions).
1. symptoms of depression in women of hopelessness or despair
Bipolar depression is characterised by feelings of despair and desperation. In a depressive phase, people may feel depressed, empty, empty, or hopeless and may also experience feelings of guilt or desperation. These symptoms can make it difficult to cope with daily life and may lead to a lack of interest in past activities. In severe instances, feeling unworthy can cause thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Certain people suffering from bipolar disorder as well as feeling worthless and believing that they aren't worthy of love, also have difficulty connecting with their positive characteristics. This is especially challenging in close relationships like those with family or romantic partners. It is important to seek assistance from a mental healthcare professional or call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for 24 hour support.
Bipolar disorder can cause depression and mania at the same moment. This is known as a mixed episode. A person may be affected by both the negative feelings associated with depression and the high levels of energy and false beliefs that are associated with mania at the same time. Mania is defined as feeling joyful and exuberant and laughing often, feeling confident and ambitious, and having hallucinations or delusions.
A combination of therapy and medication can ease the symptoms. Techniques to reduce stress, a healthy diet and a consistent sleep schedule can also aid. It is important that you adhere to the treatment program prescribed by your doctor because abruptly stopping it could trigger severe episodes. Psychotherapy (talk therapy) can assist you in working through the issues the cause of your mood swings.
2. Decreased interest in activities you once enjoyed
Depression is characterized by a loss of interest in the activities that you usually like to do. This could be due to activities like hobbies, work or time spent with friends and family members. Remember that depression is an illness and it may take time to feel better. You should still consult your doctor to manage your symptoms.
Bipolar disorder sufferers experience intense changes in mood as well as energy levels and activity levels. It can lead to periods where you feel "up," elated or exuberant, or even "up" (known by the term mania) in contrast to times when you feel "down," sad, and "down." Bipolar disorder mood swings may be a matter of weeks, days, or even months.
The most common form of depression is called major depression. It can be caused by a stressful life occasion, like the loss of a loved-one or losing your job. It is important to understand that depression is not the same as the temporary negative feelings that you might feel in response to an incident. Depression is persistent, severe and doesn't disappear by itself.
Your doctor may treat your depression with psychotherapy or medication. Medicine can help manage your mood and prevent them from occurring However, it's crucial to use your medication regularly according to the instructions of your doctor. Treatments for depression include antidepressants and mood stabilizers, such as lithium. You can find more information about specific medications, including side effects and warnings, on the FDA website. Some people can benefit from a treatment called brain stimulation that uses magnetic or electrical waves to stimulate or inhibit certain areas of their brain.
3. Trouble concentrating
Bipolar disorder is characterised by periods of excessive energy and activity (manic episodes or "manic episodes") and is followed by severe depression. This can cause difficulty in focusing on other tasks or work. It could also cause problems at home or in relationships. Family and friends are often the first to notice the change in someone's behavior.
Concentration problems can be an indication of a medical condition, like a head injury or neurological issue. People who have these problems should consult their doctor and get an assessment.
It is normal to experience difficulties concentrating when you are stressed or exhausted. This is a temporary issue and typically improves as the person is relaxed or more calm. Mental illness like anxiety or depression can cause difficulty concentrating. It is crucial to get an accurate diagnosis because it will allow the doctor to choose the right treatment.
Researchers found that the difficulty in concentrating was related to trait worry, and all three severity indices of clinical severity. This is different than previous findings, which revealed that the difficulty in concentrating was not associated with other GAD-related symptoms when depression was statistically controlled (Joormann & Stober 1999).
If you're concerned about your concentration, speak to your health care provider. Combining therapy and medication can be helpful. You may need to look for months or even years to find the most effective treatment plan. Early treatment can reduce the severity and frequency of manic or depressive episodes. They can also stop them from returning. Other prevention strategies include keeping a journal of your mood to identify the signs of an episode and avoid or reduce stress.
4. Feelings of guilt and feeling unworthy
Depression can cause feelings of self-loathing and despair. It's important to remember these feelings aren't caused by you and that you aren't worthy of these feelings. If you're depressed and have thoughts of self-harm you must seek immediate help.
Some people who suffer from bipolar disorder experience episodes of both depression and mania. These are known as mixed episodes. There are times when you experience both highs and lows, but the highs will be less intense than the lows. There may be rapid changes in your mood, causing you to change from one state to another quickly.
The symptoms of hypomania or manic can include feelings of excitement and energy as well as increased irritability, higher activity levels as well as false beliefs (delusions) and paranoid or irrational behaviour. When you are in a hypomanic or manic period, you are more likely to make mistakes and spend money. If you're having trouble managing your finances, you should consider appointing a person to manage them on your behalf.
If you experience mood-related symptoms that last for two weeks or longer, it's a good idea to consult your doctor. They'll ask you about your symptoms, and look for symptoms of bipolar disorder. They may suggest keeping an account of your mood or chart to check for patterns. If they suspect that you are having a serious manic or depressive episode or if you are concerned about your safety, they may refer you to the local NHS community mental health team (CMHT). You will find a list of helpful contacts and resources on the Bipolar UK website.
5. Feelings of despair or worthlessness
Bipolar depression is difficult to diagnose. Talk to your doctor if feel hopeless, depressed or unworthy. It could take a few months or even years before you and your physician determine the best treatment plan for you.
People suffering from bipolar disorder experience distinct periods of very positive energetic, exuberant and happy behavior (known as manic episodes) and also very depressed sad, indifferent, or hopeless phases (known as depressive episodes). These mood fluctuations can make it hard to complete daily tasks. These mood episodes may also be accompanied by feelings of irritability or impulsivity. These mood-related episodes can result in sleeplessness and a change in appetite.
These episodes could last for more than a week and occur at regular intervals throughout your life. They can also be triggered by certain events and drugs or alcohol. For example, stressful life events like moving or getting divorced, getting an occupation or losing one can cause an episode. Cocaine, ecstasy, as well as amphetamines are also substances that can trigger an episode. Some over-the-counter medications like antidepressants and sleep aids, can also cause an episode.
Bipolar disorder-related depression can be severe and is correlated with a higher risk of suicide. Suicide is more frequent among people with frequent depressive episodes, mixed episode or an history of suicide, or early beginning. Other risk factors include previous suicide attempts, a history of drug or alcohol abuse and a family history of psychotic disorders.
Bipolar disorder is not curable but you can manage the symptoms and live an active and healthy life with the help of good medical care, a treatment plan including medication, therapy and lifestyle changes. Even if you feel better, it is crucial to adhere to your treatment plan.