Bipolar depression is a mood disorder caused by unusual mood swings. Someone who experiences bipolar depression may experience periods of lows, and then swing in the opposite direction and feel highs with feelings of happiness and energy. Some people can have the swings in mood multiple times a day, whereas others may only have them a few times per year. The symptoms include mood swings of euphoric highs and lows. During the highs the person may show signs such as: a high self esteem; being very optimistic; increased sex drive; not sleeping very much .Also there are symptoms like being careless and not worrying about actions or consequences; more physically active.
When in having a depressive episode these symptoms may appear; being sad all the time, or for extended periods; feelings of helplessness and hopelessness; not being able to sleep/sleeping excessively; poor appetite or overeating; thoughts of suicide
There are different types of Bipolar disorder: Bipolar I: someone suffering from this type of bipolar disorder has experienced at least one episode of mania in their life. Bipolar II this is similar to bipolar 1, but the person will most likely not have experienced a full manic episode during their high period which is called hypomanic. Most people also have one or more depressive moods. Between episodes they usually live normal lives. Cyclothymic This is a type where people have multiple episodes, possibly per year, but do not go into a full manic or depressive state. Even though they are having multiple episodes, they are not as severe as other types.
Depending on the symptoms you are suffering from there are different treatments that can be used. The most common is the use of medication and therapy. If the symptoms become extreme the person suffering may need to be hospitalized for a period of time. Even though the person may not have symptoms all of the time they need to continue to be treated. Bipolar disorder with depression is a serious illness and if you or someone you know has signs, a psychiatrist should be consulted immediately. If left untreated it could lead to serious problems for the person, and to people around them.
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