What Experts Say You Should Learn

Bipolar Depression Disorder Symptoms
Bipolar patients may have difficulty staying at school or at work as well as strained relationships with family members and friends, and an increased risk of drug and alcohol abuse. Untreated symptoms can also lead to feelings of irritability and thoughts of suicide.
In addition, to periods of extreme "down" moods, a few people experience manic episodes. They can experience delusions, as well as hearing, seeing, or smelling something that's not really there.
1. Feelings of despair or hopelessness
Bipolar depression is characterised by feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness. During a depressive phase the person may feel depressed, hopeless or feel guilty. They might also feel worthless or guilty. These symptoms can make it difficult to deal with everyday life and may cause an absence of interest in activities that once brought enjoyment. In severe cases, feeling worthless could trigger thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
In addition to feeling unworthy, some people who suffer from bipolar disorder have difficulty connecting to their strengths and believe that they aren't worthy of being loved. This can be particularly difficult when it comes to relationships that are intimate, such as those with family members or romantic partners. When this happens, it's crucial to seek assistance from a mental health professional, or call 911 or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to talk to someone 24/7.
Sometimes, people with bipolar disorder have depression and mania at the same time. This is referred to as a mixed episode. One can experience both the negative feelings associated with depression and the high levels of energy and false beliefs that are associated with mania simultaneously. Mania is defined as feeling happy and excited, talking and laughing a lot, being overconfident and ambitious, as well as having hallucinations and thoughts of delusions.
Combining medication and therapy can help alleviate these symptoms. A regular sleeping schedule along with a healthy diet and stress reduction techniques can also be helpful. It is essential to adhere to the treatment plan your doctor prescribes, since abruptly stopping can trigger severe episodes. Psychotherapy (talk therapy) on the other hand, can help you to work through issues that may contribute to your mood fluctuations.
2. You no longer enjoy the activities you used to take pleasure in
Depression is caused by a decline in interest in the activities that you usually enjoy. This may include activities like hobbies, work or spending time with family members and friends. It's important to remember that depression is a real condition, and it can take a while before you be able to feel better. You should consult with your doctor for treatment of your symptoms.
People suffering from bipolar disorder have intense mood swings as well as energy levels and levels of activity. This can lead to periods of feeling extremely "up," elated, and energized (known as mania) to periods of feeling extremely "down" and sad (known as depression). The mood swings of bipolar disorder can be present for a few days, weeks or even months.
The most prevalent kind of depression is known as major depressive disorder. It can be triggered by a difficult life occasion, like the loss 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 feel in response to an incident. Depression is chronic and severe, and it doesn't go away on its own.
Psychotherapy or medication may be recommended by your doctor to treat depression. The medication can help you manage your mood disorders, and even prevent them from happening. However, you must take your medication according to the instructions of your physician. Treatments for depression include antidepressants as well as mood stabilizers, like lithium. On the FDA website, you can find out more about specific medications including warnings and side effects. Certain people may benefit from a treatment called brain stimulation, which involves using magnetic or electrical waves to activate or inhibit 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 followed by severe depression. This can make it difficult to concentrate on work or other tasks. It can also cause problems at home or in relationships. Friends and family members are often the first to notice a change in a person’s behavior.
A head injury or neurological issue can also make it difficult to concentrate. Anyone suffering from these issues should talk to their physician and receive a diagnosis.
It is normal for people to have difficulty concentrating, particularly when they are stressed or tired. However, this is usually temporary and gets better as the person finds rest or is calmer. A mental illness such as anxiety or depression may cause problems with concentration. It is important to get the right diagnosis, as it will help the doctor choose the best treatment.
In a study that used self-report measures as well as a sample with a diagnosis researchers discovered that difficulty in concentrating was associated with trait worry as well as all three indicators of severity. This is different from previous studies that found that difficulty concentrating did not correlate with other GAD symptoms when depression was controlled statistically (Joormann and Stober 1999).
If you're concerned about your concentration, speak with your health care provider. Combining medication with therapy can be helpful. You may have to look for months or years to find the right treatment plan. However, seeking physical symptoms of depression I Am Psychiatry as early as you can will lessen the severity of manic or depression-related episodes. It can also stop them from recurring. You can also avoid stress by keeping a mood diary. This will allow you to notice early signs and help you to reduce or avoid stress.
4. Feelings of guilt and feeling unworthy
The depressive lows that are so intense can be coupled with feelings of self-doubt and deprivation. Keep in mind that these feelings do not originate from you and they aren't your fault. If you're feeling depressed and you're thinking of self-harm You should seek immediate help.
Bipolar disorder can trigger episodes of depression and mania. These are called mixed episodes. During a mixed episode you may feel both low and high, however, the highs aren't as intense as the lows. There are also rapid mood changes, causing you jump from one state into another.
The signs of hypomania or mania 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're more likely to make mistakes and spend money. If you're having trouble managing your finances, it's a great idea to make a lasting power of attorney to name someone to manage them for you.
Talk to your doctor if you experience mood symptoms for more than 2 weeks. They'll ask you about your symptoms, and look for indications of bipolar disorder. They may suggest keeping an account of your mood or a chart to see whether you can spot any patterns. They might 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 security. You can find a list helpful contacts and information on the Bipolar UK website.
5. Feelings of hopelessness or despair
Bipolar depression is often difficult to identify. It is essential to inform your doctor about any feelings of sadness, despair or feelings of utter despair that you are experiencing. It could take a few months or even years before you and your physician discover the right treatment plan for you.
Bipolar disorder is defined by periods of extreme elation, excitement and energy (known collectively as manic episodes) as well as periods of extreme sadness, hopelessness, and indifference (known collectively as depressive episodes). These mood swings can make daily tasks difficult. These mood swings can be caused by feelings of irritability and impulsiveness as well as racing thoughts. They can also cause problems sleeping and a change in appetite.
These episodes can last for a week or more and can occur on a regular basis throughout your life. They can be triggered by certain events, as well as alcohol or drugs. For instance, stressful life events like moving or getting divorced, obtaining an occupation or losing one can cause an episode. Drugs like cocaine, ecstasy and amphetamines can also cause an episode. Certain prescription medications like antidepressants and sleep aids, may trigger an episode.
Bipolar disorder-related depression can be severe and is correlated with a higher risk of suicide. Suicide is more common in people who have frequent depressive episodes, mixed episode and a history of suicide, or early beginning. Other risk factors include previous suicide attempts to commit suicide, a history of substance or alcohol abuse, as well as the family history of psychotic disorders.
Bipolar disorder isn't curable however, you can manage the symptoms and lead a healthy lifestyle with assistance of a good medical treatment, a treatment plan including medication, therapy and lifestyle modifications. Even if you feel better, it is important to stick to the treatment plan you have chosen.