Bipolar Depression Disorder Symptoms
People with bipolar depression may have difficulty staying at work or school and have trouble establishing relationships with friends and family members, and an increased risk of drug and alcohol abuse. Untreated emotional symptoms of depression can cause feelings of irritability or thoughts of suicide.
Some people also have manic episodes in addition to extreme “down” moods. They can be characterized by experiencing, hearing or smelling things that aren’t there (hallucinations) and believing in things that aren’t real (delusions).
1. Feelings of hopelessness or a sense of worthlessness
Bipolar depression is characterized by feelings of despair and worthlessness. During a depressive episode, a person may feel down and empty, or even hopeless and may also experience feelings of guilt or a sense of worthlessness. These symptoms can make it difficult to cope with everyday life and may lead to an absence of interest in activities that previously brought enjoyment. In severe instances, feeling devalued may trigger thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
In addition, to feeling devalued People who suffer from bipolar disorder are having trouble connecting to their strengths and believe that they don’t deserve to be loved. This can be particularly difficult in relationships with close people like those with families or romantic partners. It is essential to seek help from a mental health signs and symptoms healthcare professional or contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for 24 hour support.
Sometimes, those with bipolar disorder have depression and mania at the same time. This is called a mixed episode. In this case one may experience the negative feelings of depression and the high energy and false beliefs that are associated with mania concurrently. The signs of mania are feeling excited and happy, spending a lot of time laughing and talking and being too confident and ambitious, and experiencing hallucinations, delusions or hallucinations that involve hearing or seeing things that aren’t there.
A combination of medication and therapy can ease the symptoms. A regular sleep schedule as well as a healthy diet and techniques for reducing stress can also be helpful. It is essential to adhere to the treatment plan recommended by your physician, as abruptly stopping it can cause severe episodes. Psychotherapy (talk therapy), however can help you resolve issues that could be causing your mood fluctuations.
2. A decrease in interest in activities you used to enjoy
A decrease in enthusiasm for activities you usually enjoy is one of the telltale signs of depression. This can include activities, hobbies, or spending time with your family and friends. It is important to remember that depression is a real illness, and it can take a while to get better. You should consult with your doctor for treatment of your symptoms.
Bipolar disorder is characterised by extreme mood swings, changes in energy and activity levels. This can result in periods of feeling extremely “up,” elated, irritable, or energized (known as mania) to periods of feeling extremely “down” and sad (known as depression). Bipolar disorder mood swings may last for weeks, days or even months.
Major depression is the most frequent type of depression. It can be triggered by a difficult life event, such as the death of a loved one or losing your job. However, it’s important to remember that depression is not the same as the normal negative emotions you may experience in response to an event in your life. Depression is persistent and severe, and it doesn’t go away on its own.
Your doctor may treat your depression with psychotherapy or medication. Medicine can help manage your mood swings and prevent them from occurring However, it’s crucial to take your medications consistently according to the prescriptions of your doctor. Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, such as lithium and others are available for treating depression. On the FDA website you can learn more about specific medications including adverse effects and warnings. For some, brain stimulation therapy — which involves activating or inhibiting certain areas of the brain with magnetic waves or electricity- can also help with depression.
3. It is difficult to concentrate
Bipolar disorder is characterised by prolonged periods of energy and activity (manic episodes or “manic episodes”), followed by severe depression. This can make it difficult to concentrate on work or other activities. It can also cause problems at home, as well as in relationships. Family and friends are often the first to notice changes in a person’s behavior.
A head injury or neurological problem can also make it difficult to concentrate. People who have these problems should talk to their doctor and receive a diagnosis.
It is normal for people to have difficulties concentrating, especially when they are stressed or tired. However, this usually lasts for a short time and gets better as the person is able to rest or becomes more calm. It could also be a symptom of mental illness, such as anxiety or depression. It is important to get an accurate diagnosis, since it will help the doctor determine the most effective treatment.
Researchers discovered that the difficulty in concentrating was connected to trait worry, as well as all three clinical severity indices. This is different than previous findings, which showed that the difficulty in concentrating was not associated with other symptoms of GAD when depression was statistically controlled (Joormann and Stober 1999).
Talk with your doctor if are concerned about your concentration. A combination of medication and therapy may aid. It may be necessary to search for months or years to find the most effective treatment plan. Early treatment can lessen the severity and frequency of manic or depressive episodes. It also can prevent them from recurring. Other strategies for prevention include keeping a mood diary, so you can notice 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 is important to remember that these feelings aren’t your fault and that you don’t deserve 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 help immediately.
People with bipolar disorder have episodes of mania and depression. They are known as mixed episodes. In a mixed episode, you might feel both low and high, but the highs aren’t as intense as the lows. There may be rapid changes in your mood, which can cause you to switch between states very quickly.
The internal signs of depression of hypomania or mania include a surge in energy and excitement and irritability, as well as increased levels of activity, false beliefs (delusions), or paranoid or irrational behaviour. When you are in a hypomanic or manic period, you are more likely to take risks and spend money. If you are having trouble managing your finances, think about appointing someone to handle them on your behalf.
Speak to your doctor If you’ve been experiencing mood-related symptoms for more than two weeks. They’ll inquire about your symptoms and check for the identifying signs of depression of bipolar disorder. They may recommend that you keep a chart or mood journal to check for patterns. They may refer you to your local NHS community mental health team (CMHT) in the event that they believe that you’re experiencing an extreme manic or depressive episode or if they have concerns about your security. You can find a list of helpful contacts and information on the Bipolar UK website.
5. Feelings of hopelessness or despair
Bipolar depression is often difficult to diagnose. It is essential to inform your doctor about any feelings of sadness, despair or worthlessness that you experience. It could take months or years for you and your physician to come up with the most effective treatment plan.
Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme excitement, elation and energy (known collectively as manic episodes) as well as periods of extreme sadness, hopelessness and apathy (known collectively as depressive episodes). These mood fluctuations can make daily tasks more difficult. These mood swings can be associated with feelings of anger and impulsiveness as well as racing thoughts. They can also lead to trouble sleeping and an increase in appetite.
These episodes can last for up to a week and occur at regular intervals throughout your life. They may also be triggered by certain events and drugs or alcohol. For example stress-inducing life events like moving, getting married or divorced, obtaining a job or losing one can trigger an episode. Cocaine, ecstasy and amphetamines are all substances that can cause an episode. Certain over-the-counter medicines, such as antidepressants and sleep aids, may trigger an episode.
Bipolar disorder depression can be severe and is linked to a higher risk of suicide. Suicide is more frequent in those who experience frequent depressive episodes, a mixed episode and a history of suicide, or early symptoms Of depression beginning. Other risk factors are previous attempts, a substance or alcohol history, as well as the family history of psychotic disorders.
There is no known cure for bipolar disorder. However, with proper medical treatment and an effective treatment plan that incorporates therapies, medications and lifestyle modifications, you can manage your symptoms and lead a the life you want to live. It is essential to stay with your treatment plan, even if you feel better.