Demetra Ericson

Bipolar Depression Disorder Symptoms

People suffering from bipolar depression might have difficulty staying at school or work as well as strained relationships with family members and friends, and an increased risk of drug and alcohol abuse. Untreated symptoms can lead to feelings of irritability and thoughts of suicide.

Some people also have manic episodes in addition to extreme "down" moods. These can include seeing, hearing or smelling things that aren't there (hallucinations) and believing things that aren't true (delusions).

1. Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness

Feelings of desperation or despair are a typical symptom of bipolar depression. When a person is in a depressive mood, a person can feel hopeless, empty or even guilt-ridden. They might also feel guilty or unworthy. These symptoms can make it difficult to cope with daily life and can result in an absence of enthusiasm for activities that once brought enjoyment. In extreme instances, feeling unworthy could trigger thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

People with bipolar disorder as well as being devalued and believing they aren't worthy of love, also have difficulty connecting to their positive qualities. This is especially challenging when it comes to close relationships, such as those with parents or romantic partners. If this happens, it's crucial to get assistance from a mental health professional or dial 911 or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to chat with a person 24/7.

Sometimes, those with bipolar disorder experience both depression and mania at the same time. This is called a mixed episode. One can experience both the negative feelings associated with depression and high levels of energy and false beliefs that are associated with mania, all at the same time. Mania is the state of being joyful and exuberant, talking and laughing a lot, being overconfident and determined, as well as having hallucinations or illusions.

A combination of medication and therapy can alleviate these symptoms. A regular schedule signs of feeling down sleep as well as a healthy diet and techniques for reducing stress can be beneficial. It is important that you adhere to the treatment program that your doctor has prescribed because abruptly stopping it can trigger severe episodes. Additionally, psychotherapy (talk therapy) can assist you in working through the issues driving your mood swings.

2. A decrease in interest in activities you once enjoyed

A loss of interest in activities that you normally like is one of the indicators of depression. This could be related to hobbies, work or spending time with your family and friends. It's important to keep in mind that depression is a real illness and it may take some time to be able to feel better. You should still consult your doctor to manage your symptoms of severe depressive episode.

People suffering from bipolar disorder are prone to extreme changes in mood levels, energy levels, and levels of activity. It can lead to periods where you feel "up," elated or very "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 be present for a few days, weeks, or even months.

The most common kind of depression is known as major depression. It can be triggered by a difficult life incident, such as the death of a loved one or losing your job. It is important to remember that depression isn't like the temporary negative feelings you might feel in response to an event. Depression is severe, persistent and doesn't disappear on its own.

Your doctor can treat your depression using medication or psychotherapy. The medication can help you manage your mood episodes and can even stop them from occurring. But you must take your medication as prescribed by your physician. Antidepressants, mood stabilizers such as lithium and other medications can be prescribed for depression. On the FDA website you can find more about specific medications, including side effects and warnings. For some, brain stimulation therapy -that involves activating or blocking certain regions of the brain with electricity or magnetic waves -can help with depression.

3. Trouble concentrating

A person with bipolar disorder has periods of unusually high energy and activity (mania or "manic" episodes) that are followed by a severe depression. This can make it difficult to focus on other tasks or work. It can also cause problems at home, as well as in relationships. Often family members and friends are the first to observe changes in a person's behavior.

Difficulty concentrating can also be an indication of a medical issue, such as a head injury or neurological issue. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it's essential to speak with your doctor and get an assessment.

It is normal to have difficulties concentrating particularly when stressed or exhausted. However, this is usually temporary and improves as the individual finds rest or is more relaxed. It could also be a symptom of mental health symptoms of depression illness, like anxiety or depression. It is essential to obtain the right diagnosis, as it will assist the doctor choose the best treatment.

Researchers discovered that the difficulty in concentrating was connected to trait worry, as well as all three severity indices of clinical severity. This is in contrast to previous studies that found that difficulties in concentrating were not associated with other GAD symptoms once depression was statistically controlled (Joormann and Stober 1999).

Speak with your doctor if you are worried about your concentration. Combining therapy and medication could be beneficial. You may have to look for months or even years to find the most effective treatment strategy. Early treatment can reduce the frequency and severity of depressive or manic symptoms. They can also prevent them from returning. Other strategies for prevention include keeping a mood journal to identify the early signs of depression in elderly of an episode and prevent or reduce stress.

4. Feelings of guilt and worthlessness

Depression can lead to feelings of self-loathing or worthlessness. Remember that these feelings don't originate from you and they are not your fault. If your mood becomes extreme and you are contemplating of suicide It's an emergency in your mental health and you should seek help immediately.

Bipolar disorder can cause episodes of depression and mania. These are called mixed episodes. During a mixed episode you might feel both low and high, however, the highs aren't as intense as the lows. It is also possible to experience rapid mood fluctuations, causing you jump from one state to another.

The symptoms of hypomania or manic include an increase in energy and enthusiasm in addition to increased irritability, higher levels of activity and impulsive behavior, false beliefs (delusions) or paranoid or irrational behavior. When you are in a hypomanic or manic period, you're more likely to take risks and spend money. 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 more, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor. They'll ask about your symptoms and check for the symptoms of bipolar disorder. They may suggest that you keep a mood journal or chart to identify patterns. They may recommend you to your local NHS community mental health team (CMHT) when they suspect that you're having an extreme manic or depressive episode or if there are concerns about your security. You will find a list of useful contacts and resources on the Bipolar UK website.

5. Feelings of despair or worthlessness

Bipolar depression is often difficult to diagnose. It is crucial to inform your doctor about any feelings signs of feeling down sadness, despair or worthlessness that you experience. It could take a few months or years for you and your doctor to find the best treatment plan.

Bipolar disorder is characterised by periods of extreme excitement, elation and energy (known collectively as manic episodes) and also by periods of extreme sadness, hopelessness and indifference (known collectively as depressive episodes). These mood swings can make daily tasks difficult. These mood changes can be associated with feelings of anger and impulsiveness as well as racing thoughts. They can also cause trouble sleeping and an increase in appetite.

These episodes can last for up to a week and may occur at regular intervals throughout your life. They may also be triggered by certain events and drugs or alcohol. For instance, stressful life events like moving, getting married or divorced, getting a job or losing one can cause an episode. Drugs such as cocaine, ecstasy and amphetamines can trigger an episode. Certain over-the-counter medicines, such as antidepressants and sleep aids, could trigger an episode.

Depression in bipolar disorder is severe and may increase the possibility of suicide. Suicide is more frequent in people with frequent depressive episodes, mixed episode or an history of suicide, or early development. Other risk factors include previous suicide attempts to commit suicide, a history of substance or alcohol abuse, 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 a healthy life. It is essential to stay with your treatment plan, even if you feel better.