Bipolar Depression Disorder Symptoms

People with bipolar depression may have difficulty staying at work or school and have trouble establishing relationships with family members and friends, and an increased risk of drug and alcohol abuse. Untreated symptoms can lead to feelings such as irritability or thoughts of suicide.

In addition, to periods of extreme "down" moods, a few people have manic episodes. They can experience delusions, as well as hearing, seeing or smelling something that isn't real.

1. Feelings of hopelessness or despair

Feelings of despair or hopelessness are a common sign of bipolar depression. During a depressive phase the person may feel hopeless, empty or even guilty. They might also feel worthless or guilty. These symptoms can make it difficult to manage daily life and could cause a loss of interest in activities that previously brought satisfaction. In extreme instances, feeling devalued can cause thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

Some people with bipolar disorder as well as feeling worthless and believing that they aren't worthy of love, also have a difficult time connecting with their positive characteristics. This can be particularly challenging in close relationships like those with family members or romantic partners. If this happens, it's crucial to seek help from an expert in mental health, or dial 911 or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to speak with someone 24/7.

Bipolar disorder can cause depression and mania at the same moment. This is known as a mixed episode. One can be affected by both the negative feelings associated with depression symptoms in seniors and the high levels of energy and false beliefs that are associated with mania simultaneously. The signs of mania are feeling excited and happy, spending lots of time laughing and talking and being too confident and ambitious, and experiencing hallucinations or delusions that include seeing or hearing things that aren't real.

A combination of therapy and medication can alleviate these symptoms. Strategies for reducing stress, a healthy diet and a regular sleep schedule can also aid. It is crucial to stay to the treatment plan your doctor prescribes, because abruptly stopping treatment can trigger serious episodes. Psychotherapy (talk therapy), on the other hand can assist you to resolve issues that could contribute to your mood fluctuations.

2. You no longer enjoy the activities you used to enjoy

Depression is manifests itself in a lack of interest in the activities you normally like to do. This can include activities, hobbies, or time spent with family and friends. It's important to keep in mind that depression symptoms in males is a real disease and it can take a while before you get better. You should still consult your physician to address your symptoms.

Bipolar disorder sufferers are prone to extreme changes in mood levels, energy levels, and activity levels. 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 mood swings can last days, weeks or even months.

The most frequent form of depression is called major depressive disorder. It can be triggered by a stressful event in your life, like losing a job or the death of a close relative. But, it's important to remember that depression is different from the normal negative feelings you may experience in reaction to a life event. Depression is persistent, severe and doesn't go away by itself.

Your doctor may treat your depression with medication or psychotherapy. Medication can control your mood swings, and even prevent them from occurring. However, you must take the medication prescribed by your doctor. Treatments for depression include antidepressants as well as mood stabilizers, such as lithium. There is more information about specific medications that are used to treat depression, including side effects and warnings, on the FDA website. Some people can benefit from brain stimulation therapy that uses magnetic or electrical waves to stimulate or inhibit certain brain regions.

3. Trouble concentrating

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

The difficulty in concentrating could be an indication of a medical issue, such as a head injury or neurological issue. Patients suffering from these issues should talk to their health care provider and receive a diagnosis.

It is normal for people to experience difficulties concentrating, especially when they are stressed or tired. This is a temporary issue and typically improves after a person rests or becomes calmer. It could also be a sign of mental illness, like depression or anxiety. It is essential to obtain an accurate diagnosis, since it will help the doctor choose the best treatment.

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

Speak with your doctor if you are concerned about your concentration. Combining therapy and medication could be beneficial. It may be necessary to look for months or even years to find the best treatment plan. Early treatment can decrease the frequency and severity of depressive or manic episodes. It can also prevent them from occurring again. You can also reduce stress by keeping a journal of your mood. This will help you to notice early signs and minimize or eliminate stress.

4. Feelings of guilt, shame and a sense of inadequacy

The intense lows of depression can be associated with feelings of self-doubt and despair. Be aware that these feelings don't originate from you, and they aren't your fault. 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.

Bipolar disorder can cause episodes of depression and mania. These are called mixed episodes. During a mixed episode you may feel both high and low, however, the highs aren't as intense as the lows. You might also experience rapid changes in your mood that cause you to change between states rapidly.

Symptoms of mania or hypomania can include feelings of energy and excitement, heightened irritability, increased activity levels as well as false beliefs (delusions), and paranoid or irrational behavior. In a manic or hypomanic period, you are more likely to take risks and spend money. If you're having trouble managing your finances, it's a great idea to create a permanent power of attorney to appoint an individual to manage your finances for you.

If you experience mood-related symptoms lasting for 2 weeks or more, it's a good idea to speak to your doctor. They'll ask about your symptoms and search for the Signs of sadness of bipolar disorder. They might suggest that you keep an account of your mood or chart to look for patterns. If they feel that you are suffering from a serious manic or depressive symptoms checklist episode, or if you are concerned about your safety, they could recommend you to the local NHS community mental health team (CMHT). Bipolar UK has a list with helpful contacts and resources.

5. Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness

Bipolar depression is difficult to recognize. Talk to your doctor if feel hopeless, depressed or worthless. It could take a number of months or even years before you and your physician determine the best treatment plan for you.

People suffering from bipolar disorder experience distinct periods of very up energetic, exuberant and happy behavior (known as manic episodes) and also very depressed, sad, indifferent or hopeless times (known as depressive symptoms checklist episodes). These mood fluctuations can make it difficult to complete daily tasks. These mood changes can be associated with feelings of anger or impulsiveness, as well as racing thoughts. They can also cause problems sleeping and a change in appetite.

These episodes can last for up to a week and can occur at regular intervals throughout your life. These episodes are often caused by alcohol or drugs and also by certain life events. Life events that stress you, like moving, getting divorced or married, or getting an entirely new job or losing an old one can cause a psychotic attack. Cocaine, ecstasy and amphetamines are all substances that can cause an episode. Some over-the-counter medications, such as antidepressants and sleep aids, could trigger an episode.

Depression in bipolar disorder can be severe and is linked to a higher risk of suicide. Suicide is more frequent among people with frequent depressive episodes, a mixed episode or a history of suicide, or early development. Other risk factors include previous suicide attempts to commit suicide, a history of substance or alcohol abuse, and an ancestry of psychotic disorders.

Bipolar disorder cannot be treated however, you can manage the symptoms of persistent depressive disorder and lead a healthy lifestyle with the help of good medical care and a treatment program that includes therapy, medication and lifestyle changes. Even if you feel better, it is important to stick to the treatment plan you have chosen.