Bipolar Depression Disorder Symptoms

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

In addition, to periods of extreme "down" moods, a few people have manic episodes. These can include delusions, hearing, seeing or smelling something that's not really there.

1. Feelings of hopelessness or despair

Bipolar depression is characterised by feelings of despair and a sense of worthlessness. In a depressive state, a person can feel empty, hopeless or feel feeling guilty. They might also feel worthless or guilty. These symptoms can make it difficult to deal with everyday life and may lead to an absence of interest in activities that once brought enjoyment. In extreme instances, feeling devalued can cause thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

People with bipolar disorder are also prone to feeling worthless and believing that they aren't worthy of love, also have difficulty connecting to their positive characteristics. This is especially challenging in relationships with close people, such as those with family or romantic partners. When this happens, it's important to seek assistance from an expert in mental health, or call 911 or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to speak with someone all hours of the day.

Sometimes, people suffering from bipolar disorder experience both depression and mania at the same time. This is called a mixed episode. In this instance it is possible for a person to experience depression-like feelings and the energy boost and false perceptions associated with mania at the same time. Symptoms of mania can include being happy and excited and spending lots of time laughing and talking, being overly confident and ambitious, and experiencing hallucinations or delusions that involve hearing or seeing things that aren't there.

Combining therapy and medication can help alleviate these ailments. Stress reduction techniques, a healthy diet and a consistent sleep schedule can also help. It is crucial to stay with the treatment plan that your doctor prescribes, because abruptly stopping treatment can trigger serious episodes. Additionally, psychotherapy (talk therapy) can assist you in working through the issues driving your mood swings.

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

Depression is caused by a decline in enthusiasm for the activities you usually like to do. This could include things such as hobbies, work, or time spent with family members and friends. Be aware that depression is a serious illness that can take time to feel better. Despite this you should continue to visit your doctor and establish a support network to help manage your symptoms.

Bipolar disorder is characterised by intense mood swings, changes in energy levels and activity levels. This can cause periods of feeling depressed extremely "up," elated, angry, or excited (known as mania) to times of feeling "down" and sad (known as depression). The mood swings of bipolar disorder can last for days, weeks, or even months.

The most common form of depression is called major depressive symptoms checklist (relevant website) disorder. It can be caused by a stressful event that has occurred in your life, like losing your job or the death of a close family member. But, it's crucial to keep in mind that depression is different from the normal negative feelings you might temporarily have in reaction to a life event. Depression is severe, persistent and doesn't disappear on its own.

Your doctor can treat your depression using psychotherapy or medication. Medication can control your mood swings and can even stop them from occurring. But you must take your medication according to the instructions of your doctor. Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, such as lithium and others can be prescribed for depression. There is more information about specific medications with regard to side effects, as well as warnings, on the FDA website. Certain people may benefit from a treatment called brain stimulation that uses magnetic or electrical waves to stimulate or inhibit certain areas of their brain.

3. Difficulty concentrating

Bipolar disorder is characterised by a period of high energy and activity (manic episodes or "manic episodes") which are followed by severe depression. This can make it hard to concentrate on work or other tasks. It can also lead to problems at home or in relationships. In many cases family and friends are the first to notice changes in a person's behavior.

A head injury or neurological problem can also make it difficult to concentrate. If you experience these symptoms, it's important to consult your physician and obtain an evaluation.

It is normal to experience difficulties concentrating particularly when stressed or exhausted. However, this is usually temporary and improves as the individual gets rest or more calm. A mental illness such as anxiety or depression can result in difficulty concentrating. It is essential to obtain an accurate diagnosis, since it will aid the doctor choose the most effective treatment.

In a study that utilized self-report measures and a sample with a diagnosis researchers discovered that difficulty concentrating was linked with trait worry and the three indices of severity. This is different than previous findings, which showed that the difficulty in concentrating was not associated with other GAD-related symptoms when depression was statistically controlled (Joormann & Stober 1999).

If you're worried about your concentration, speak to your doctor. Combining therapy and medication can be helpful. It can take months or even years to figure out the right treatment plan, and you'll have to follow it carefully. But getting treatment as early as possible can reduce the severity of manic and depression-related episodes. They can also stop them from returning. Other methods to prevent them include keeping a mood journal, so you can notice the signs of an episode and prevent or reduce stress.

4. Feelings of guilt, shame or deprivation

Depression can trigger feelings of self-loathing or feeling devalued. It's important to remember these feelings aren't your fault and that you aren't worthy of them. If your mood is becoming more intense and you're thinking of suicide it's an acute mental health issue and you should seek treatment immediately.

Bipolar disorder can cause episodes of depression and mania. These are referred to as mixed episodes. During a mixed episode you might feel both high and low, but the highs aren't as intense as the lows. You may also experience rapid mood changes, causing you jump from one state into another.

Symptoms of mania or hypomania can include feelings of excitement and energy, heightened irritability, increased activity levels as well as false beliefs (delusions) and paranoid or irrational behaviors. When you are in a hypomanic or manic phase, you are more likely to take risks and spend money. If you're struggling to manage your finances, it's a great idea to create a permanent power of attorney that appoints someone to manage them for you.

If you're experiencing mood swings lasting for 2 weeks or longer, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor. They'll ask you about your symptoms and search for the signs of bipolar disorder. They may recommend keeping a chart or mood journal to check for patterns. If they suspect that you are experiencing a severe depressive or manic episode, or if you have concerns about your safety, they could refer you to the local NHS community mental healthcare team (CMHT). You will find a list of helpful contacts and information on the Bipolar UK website.

5. Feelings of despair or worthlessness

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

People with bipolar disorder have distinct periods of extremely up energy, euphoric and exuberant behavior (known as manic episodes) and very down sad, depressed, or hopeless times (known as depression episodes). These mood fluctuations can make everyday tasks difficult. These mood swings can be accompanied by feelings of irritability and impulsiveness. These mood swings can result in sleeplessness and a change of appetite.

These episodes can last for a week or more and may occur at regular intervals throughout your life. They can be triggered by specific circumstances and alcohol or drugs. Stressful life events like moving, getting divorced or married, or getting an entirely new job or losing your old one can trigger a psychotic episode. Cocaine, ecstasy, and amphetamines are also drugs that can cause an episode. As can certain over-the counter cold medicines, antidepressants sleep aids, stimulant medications, and thyroid medications.

Bipolar disorder can cause depression that is severe and can increase the risk of suicide. Suicide is more frequent in people with frequent depressive episodes, a mixed episode and the history of suicide or early symptoms of depression development. Other risk factors include previous attempts, a drug or alcohol history and the family history of psychotic disorders.

There is no known 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 to your treatment plan even when you feel better.