Bipolar Depression Disorder Symptoms

Bipolar patients may be unable to stay 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 like anger or thoughts of suicide.

In addition to periods of extreme "down" moods, a few sufferers experience manic episodes. They can be characterized by being able to sense, hear or smell things that aren't there (hallucinations) and believing things that aren't real (delusions).

1. Feelings of despair or hopelessness

Feelings of desperation or despair are a common sign of bipolar depression. During a depressive episode, people may feel depressed, empty and empty, or even hopeless and may also feel a sense of guilt or a sense of worthlessness. These symptoms can make it hard to manage daily life and could cause a loss of interest in activities that were enjoyable previously. In extreme instances, feeling devalued can cause thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

People with bipolar disorder, in addition to feeling devalued and believing they don't deserve love, also have difficulty connecting to their positive qualities. This can be especially challenging in close relationships like those with friends or romantic partners. If 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 suffer from depression symptoms in children and mania simultaneously. This is known as a mixed episode. During this time it is possible for a person to experience depression-like feelings and the energy boost and false beliefs that are associated with mania concurrently. Mania is characterized by feeling joyful and exuberant and laughing frequently, being confident and ambitious, and having hallucinations and thoughts of delusions.

Combining medication and therapy can help alleviate these ailments. Stress reduction techniques such as a healthy diet and a consistent sleep schedule can also aid. It is important to stick to the treatment plan your doctor prescribes, because abruptly stopping your treatment can trigger severe episodes. Psychotherapy (talk therapy), however can assist you to resolve issues that could be causing your mood swings.

2. You're no longer enjoying the activities you used enjoy

Depression is characterized by a loss of interest in the activities that you usually like to do. This can include hobbies, work or spending time with family and friends. It's important to remember that depression is a real illness and it can take some time to feel better. In spite of this you should continue to visit your doctor and build an alliance of support to help you manage your symptoms.

Bipolar disorder is characterised by extreme mood swings and changes in energy levels and levels of activity. 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 can cause mood swings that can last for days, weeks or even months.

The most common type of depression is major depressive disorder. It can be triggered by a life-threatening occasion, like the death of a loved-one or losing your job. It is important to understand that depression isn't the same as the temporary negative feelings that you might experience in response to an event. Depression is permanent and severe, and it doesn't disappear on its own.

Psychotherapy or medication can be recommended by your doctor to treat depression. Medication can control your mood swings, and even prevent them from happening. However, you must take your medication according to the instructions of your physician. Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, such as lithium and others are often prescribed to treat depression. On the FDA website you can learn more about specific medications including side effects and warnings. Certain people may benefit from brain stimulation therapy, which involves using electrical or magnetic waves to stimulate or block certain brain regions.

3. It is difficult to concentrate

Bipolar disorder is defined by a period of high energy and activity (manic episodes or "manic episodes") and is which are followed by severe depression. This can make it difficult to focus on work or other activities. It could also cause problems at home or in relationships. Friends and family members are often the first to detect changes in a person's behavior.

A head injury or neurological condition can cause problems with concentration. Anyone suffering from these issues should consult their doctor and get an evaluation.

It is normal to experience difficulty concentrating at times when you are stressed or exhausted. However, this is usually temporary and improves as the person is able to rest or becomes calmer. It could also be a symptom of mental illness, such as anxiety or depression. It is essential to obtain an accurate diagnosis, since it will assist the doctor determine the most effective treatment.

In a study that used self-report assessments and a sample with a diagnosis, researchers found that difficulty concentrating was linked with trait worry and all three indices of severity. This is in contrast to previous findings, which showed that difficulty concentrating was not correlated with other symptoms of GAD after depression symptoms in seniors had been statistically controlled (Joormann & Stober 1999).

Speak with your doctor if are concerned about your concentration. Combining medication with therapy could be beneficial. It may be necessary to look for months or even years to find the right treatment strategy. But getting treatment as recognizing early signs of depression as you can will lessen the severity of manic and depression-related episodes. It also can prevent them from recurring. Other strategies for prevention include keeping a mood diary to identify the early signs of an episode and avoid or minimize stress.

4. Feelings of guilt and worthlessness

Depression can cause feelings of self-loathing and despair. Keep in mind that these feelings do not come from you and that they aren't your fault. If you're experiencing depression and are contemplating self-harm you must seek immediate help.

Some people with bipolar disorder have episodes of depression and mania. They are known as mixed episodes. There are times when you experience both highs and lows however the highs will be less intense than the lows. You might also experience rapid changes in your mood that cause you to jump between states quickly.

The signs of hypomania or mania can include feelings of energy and excitement and irritability that is heightened, as well as heightened activity levels, false beliefs (delusions) and paranoid or irrational behaviour. In a hypomanic or manic period, you're more likely to spend money and engage in risky behavior. If you are having trouble managing your finances, you should think about appointing someone to handle them on your behalf.

If you experience mood-related symptoms lasting for 2 weeks or longer, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor. They'll ask you about your symptoms, and look for indications of bipolar disorder. They may suggest keeping a mood diary or a chart to see whether you can spot any patterns. They might refer you to your local NHS community mental health signs and symptoms 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 with useful contacts and information.

5. Feelings of hopelessness or a sense of worthlessness

Bipolar depression is often difficult to identify. It is important to tell your doctor about any feelings of sadness, despair or a sense of worthlessness you feel. It could take a number of months or even years before you and your doctor discover the right treatment plan for you.

People suffering from bipolar disorder experience distinct periods of very up energetic, exuberant and happy behavior (known as manic episodes) and very down sad, indifferent, or hopeless times (known as recognizing depressive symptoms episodes). These mood fluctuations can make it hard to carry out everyday tasks. These mood episodes can also be accompanied by feelings of irritability or impulsiveness, as well as racing thoughts. These mood episodes can also result in sleeplessness and a change in appetite.

These episodes can last for several weeks and can occur at regular intervals throughout your life. They can also be triggered by certain events, as well as alcohol or drugs. Stressful life events like moving, getting divorced or married, or obtaining new work or losing one can trigger a psychotic episode. Cocaine, ecstasy, and amphetamines are other drugs that can cause an episode. So can some over-the-counter cold medications, antidepressants, sleep aids, certain stimulant medications and thyroid medications.

Depression in bipolar disorder is severe and may increase the likelihood of suicide. Suicide is more frequent in people who have frequent depressive episodes, a mixed episode or an history of suicide, or early onset. Other risk factors include previous attempts, a history of drug or alcohol abuse, and the 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 changes, you can manage your symptoms and live a an active and healthy life. It is important to stick with your treatment plan, even when you feel better.