Bipolar Depression Disorder Symptoms

Bipolar depression can cause difficulties at work or in school, as well as difficult relationships with family and friends. The risk of alcoholism and drug abuse is also increased. Unmanaged symptoms can also lead to feelings such as anger or thoughts of suicide.

In addition to periods of extreme "down" moods, some sufferers experience manic episodes. These include delusions and seeing, hearing, or smelling something that isn't really there.

1. Feelings of hopelessness or a sense of worthlessness

Feelings of despair or hopelessness are a typical symptom of bipolar depression. In a depressive episode one may feel down or empty, or depressed and may also feel a sense of guilt or a sense of worthlessness. These symptoms can make it difficult to deal with everyday life and may cause a loss of interest in past activities. In severe cases, feelings of a lack of value can trigger thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

Some people with bipolar disorder, in addition to feeling devalued and believing they aren't worthy of love, also have trouble connecting with their positive qualities. This can be particularly difficult in close relationships like those with family members or romantic partners. If this happens, it's important to seek out help from a mental health professional or contact 911 or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to speak with someone all hours of the day.

Sometimes, people with bipolar disorder experience both depression and mania at the same time. This is known as a mixed episode. During this time one may experience the negative feelings of depression and the energy boost and false perceptions associated with mania at the same time. Symptoms of mania include feeling happy and joyful and spending lots of time laughing and talking and being overly confident and ambitious, and having hallucinations or delusions that involve hearing or seeing things that aren't there.

A combination of therapy and medication can help treat these symptoms. A regular schedule of sleep along with a healthy diet and stress reduction techniques can also be helpful. It is important that you stick to the treatment plan that your doctor has prescribed because abruptly stopping it could trigger severe episodes. Psychotherapy (talk therapy), however can assist you to deal with issues that could be causing your mood fluctuation.

2. A decrease in interest in activities you once enjoyed

A loss of interest in activities you normally like is one of the telltale mild signs of depression of depression. This could include things like hobbies, work or just spending time with family and friends. Keep in mind that depression is a chronic illness and it can take some time to feel better. It is still recommended to consult your doctor for treatment of your symptoms.

People suffering from bipolar disorder are prone to extreme changes in mood, energy levels, and activity levels. This can cause periods of feeling extremely "up," elated, irritable, or exuberant (known as mania) to periods of feeling depressed very "down" and sad (known as depression). The mood swings of bipolar disorder can last for weeks, days or even months.

The most prevalent form of depression is called major depression. It can be triggered by a difficult life event, such as the death of a loved-one or losing your job. It's important to note that depression isn't the same as the short-term negative feelings that you might experience as a result of an incident. Depression is a long-lasting, severe condition and doesn't go away by itself.

Your doctor can treat your depression with psychotherapy or medication. Medication can control your mood episodes and can even stop them from happening. However, you must take your medication as prescribed by your physician. Antidepressants, mood stabilizers such as lithium, and other medications are often prescribed to treat depression. You can find more information about specific medications, including side effects and warnings, on the FDA website. For some people brain stimulation therapy- which involves activating or reducing certain areas of the brain using magnetic waves or electricity- can also help with depression.

3. It is difficult to concentrate

A person suffering from bipolar disorder can experience periods of extreme energy and activity (mania or "manic" episodes) that are followed by severe depression. This can make it hard to concentrate on work or other activities. It can also create problems in relationships at home and at work. In many cases family members and friends are the first to observe changes in a person's behavior.

A head injury or neurological problem can also cause difficulty concentrating. Anyone suffering from these issues should talk to their doctor and seek an assessment.

It is normal for people to experience difficulty concentrating, particularly when they are stressed or tired. This is a temporary issue and typically improves as the person relaxes or is calmer. A mental illness such as anxiety or depression may cause difficulty concentrating. It's important to get an accurate diagnosis as it can help the doctor choose the right treatment.

In a study that utilized self-report measures and a diagnosed sample, researchers found that difficulty in concentrating was associated with trait anxiety and the three indices of severity. This is in contrast to previous findings that showed difficulty concentrating did not correlate with other GAD symptoms once depression was controlled statistically (Joormann and Stober 1999).

Speak with your doctor if you are concerned about your concentration. A combination of medication and therapy may assist. It could take months or even years to figure out the most effective treatment plan and you'll have to follow it with care. Early treatment can lessen the severity and frequency of depressive or manic episodes. It can also prevent them from returning. Other strategies for prevention include keeping a mood journal to identify the first emotional well-being signs of an episode and prevent or minimize stress.

4. Feelings of guilt and worthlessness

The intense lows of depression can be associated with feelings of self-loathing and worthlessness. It is important to remember that these feelings aren't your fault and that you don't deserve them. If you're depressed and you're thinking of self-harm, you should seek immediate help.

Some 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 are also rapid mood swings, which can cause you to change from one state to another.

Symptoms of hypomania or mania include increased energy and excitement and irritability, as well as increased levels of activity and impulsive behavior, false beliefs (delusions) or paranoid or irrational behavior. During a manic or hypomanic period you are more likely to spend money and engage in risky behavior. If you are having trouble managing your finances, you should consider appointing someone to manage them on your behalf.

If you're experiencing mood swings that last for two weeks or more, it's a great idea to talk to your doctor. They will ask you about your symptoms, and look for symptoms of bipolar disorder. They may recommend keeping a chart or mood journal to check for patterns. If they suspect that you are having a serious manic or depressive episode, or if you are concerned about your safety, they can recommend you to the local NHS community mental health team (CMHT). Bipolar UK has a list with helpful contacts and resources.

5. Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness

Bipolar depression is difficult to diagnose. It is essential to inform your doctor about any feelings of despair, sadness or worthlessness that you experience. It may take several months or even years before you and your physician find the right treatment plan for your needs.

People suffering from bipolar disorder experience distinct periods of very up, elated and energized behavior (known as manic episodes) and also very depressed sad, indifferent, or hopeless phases (known as depression episodes). These mood changes can make everyday tasks difficult. These mood swings can be caused by feelings signs of depression in teens irritability or impulsiveness, as well as racing thoughts. They can also lead to trouble sleeping and a change in appetite.

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

Bipolar disorder-related depression can be severe and is correlated with an increased risk of suicide. Suicide is more likely in people who suffer from frequent depressive episodes, mixed episodes and an extended family history mild signs of depression suicide or a young development of the disease. Other risk factors are previous suicide attempts, a drug or alcohol history, as well as an extended family history of psychotic disorders.

There is no cure for bipolar disorder. However, with proper medical treatment and an effective treatment plan that incorporates medication, therapy and lifestyle changes, you can manage your symptoms and lead a the life you want to live. Even when you feel better, it is important to stick to the treatment plan you have chosen.