Bipolar depression is a psychiatric diagnosis that describes mood disorders that are defined by the presence of one or more episodes of abnormally elevated moods. This is referred to as mania and when it is mild is called hypomania. If you experience manic episodes you may also experience depressive episodes. Mixed episodes are when you experience both mania and depression at the same time. In cases of extreme manic episodes, you may experience psychotic symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations.
Depending on the severity of the mood episodes, this condition has been classified into bipolar I, bipolar II and cyclothymia. Full symptoms of bipolar depression normally occur in late adolescence. Diagnosis is usually based on an individual’s experience and observed behavior.
Some signs and symptoms of major depressive episodes include anxiety, persistent feelings of sadness, guilt, anger, isolation and hopelessness. Having problems with sleep, loss of appetite, fatigue, loneliness, apathy or indifference and loss of interest in activities that you previously enjoyed are other symptoms. Other signs are problems in concentrating, lack of interest in sex, irritability, chronic pain and lack of motivation.
Signs and symptoms of a manic episode are periods of elevation or irritable mood. You may also experience an increase in energy as well as a decreased need for sleep. Reduced attention span and impaired judgment are other symptoms. Causes of bipolar depression can be genetic, childhood precursors as well as life experiences and events. There are several pharmacological and psychotherapeutic techniques that treats this condition.
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