Check Out: How Depression Symptoms Bipolar Is Taking Over And What Can We Do About It

What Are the Symptoms of Depression? Depression is a mental health condition that makes you feel depressed, sad, empty or feeling hopeless. It can also cause you to lose interest in activities you once enjoyed. In extreme cases, it could result in thoughts of self-harm or suicide. A doctor will diagnose depression based upon symptoms and your medical history. They may recommend tests in order to rule out any conditions that mimic depression. Mood swings Mood swings are a sign of depression. This is particularly true when they interfere in the daily routine and relationships. They can also lead to fatigue and an increase in appetite. It is important to speak with your doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms. They might suggest medication or psychotherapy. There are many different types of mood disorders. The severity and duration of the episodes can vary. Some people only experience one episode of depression in their lives, while others experience many. Both genders are affected differently by mood disorders. Women are more likely to experience depression-related episodes than men. A diagnosis of bipolar disorder or depression disorder requires a history of depression or manic episodes that last at least two weeks. These episodes must be followed by periods of normality. During a depression episode you'll feel an overwhelming sadness or feeling of emptiness. In a manic episode you'll feel high intensity or irritability. In both episodes, you'll experience difficult to sleep and be unable think clearly. In some cases, you may even be able to experience hallucinations and dreams. Depression can cause mood fluctuations and feelings of hopelessness or despair. Some people may have suicidal thoughts or ideas and others may be unable to go on living. Other symptoms of depression are sleeplessness, a losing interest in hobbies or activities, and changes in appetite. If you notice these signs in someone you know, it's crucial to reach out to them and offer your assistance. You can keep a mood diary to track changes in your mood. This will help both you and your doctor better understand the symptoms and pinpoint any triggers. There are many resources available to help manage your symptoms. They include support groups, self-help and online services. It is essential to seek assistance as soon you can when you're experiencing depressive disorder. Talk to your GP who will refer you to a mental health team in the event of need. In the UK, your local community mental healthcare team (CMHT) is usually responsible for this. Some doctors may prescribe a specific drug such as lithium to help manage mania and depression. Depression Depression is a serious mood disorder that affects your mood, how you feel, think and behave. It can be mild and temporary to chronic and persistent. It can cause problems in your relationships, at work and make it difficult to make it through the day. Speak to your doctor if you are experiencing depression-related symptoms. They can assist you in deciding which treatment is best for you. It is possible to try several different treatments before you discover what is most effective for you. Discuss with your doctor the length of time and often the symptoms have been present. They may inquire if your symptoms are similar to those caused by specific medical ailments or medications, for example thyroid conditions or viral infections. Feeling depressed or sad is the most frequent symptom. You may also have a lack of enthusiasm or enjoyment in most activities and feel worthless and hopeless, guilt-ridden or depressed. You may experience difficulty in sleeping or concentrating and your appetite may change. You may also be experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings of emptyness or despair. The signs of depression can differ between women and men and also based on the age. Children may show depression symptoms when they are unable to attend school or appear irritable. They may also cling to their parents. People in their 50s and 60s with depression symptoms are more likely than younger people to turn to drugs and alcohol to cope with their emotions. Depression can be caused by many factors, including genetics and brain chemistry. Stress or major life events and certain illnesses are possible causes. Changes in hormones during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopause and menopausal changes can all contribute to depression. People who have a family history of depression are more likely to develop the condition. Depression is treatable. The majority of people seeking treatment will be improved with psychotherapy, antidepressant medications, or a combination. You should see your physician to determine if you have symptoms of depression for more than two weeks. They will want to hear about your symptoms as well as your family history of depression as well as any other physical or mental ailments you suffer from. They will also require tests in the lab to rule out medical ailments. Bipolar disorder Bipolar disorder (formerly known as manic depression) is characterised by extreme mood swings. These episodes can cause hypermania or mania-like highs and depression-like episodes that are usually deeper than normal depression. These episodes can affect sleep, energy and activity levels, as well as judgment and behavior. Bipolar disorder can also trigger feelings of guilt and anger, as well as feelings of agitation. During a manic period you may feel euphoric, energized, creative and productive. You might spend a lot of time talking and sleep little, while your thoughts are racing. It can be difficult to concentrate. This can cause you to make unintentional decisions, such as buying unneeded items or resigning from work without warning. When you are experiencing a depressive disorder you might feel depressed or hopeless and lose interest in the majority of activities. You may have suicidal feelings. If you think you are having a manic or depressive episode, it is essential to see your GP immediately. Your GP will ask about your symptoms as well as your health history. They will do physical examinations and tests for blood to look for any medical conditions that might be affecting your mood. If they suspect bipolar, they'll refer you to an area NHS community mental team (CMHT). It is essential to discuss any adverse effects with your doctor. You can prevent manic or depression-related episodes by taking your medication as prescribed. Do not stop taking your medication unless you are advised by your doctor. has instructed you to. Psychotherapy, also known as talking therapy, can offer support, education and coping strategies to people with bipolar disorder. It can also aid people suffering from depression associated with bipolar disorders. Treatment options include cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT) as well as family therapy, and interpersonal therapy. There are also self-help groups offering assistance and information to those suffering from bipolar disorder and their families. They can provide assistance and information between episodes, and also help people recognize early symptoms. Treatment When you experience a bipolar disorder, you may feel hopeless or very depressed. Other symptoms include changes in appetite, or trouble sleeping. There may be feelings of extreme irritability or guilt. Suicidal thoughts and feelings can be present in severe depression. Your mental health professional will provide you with coping strategies and create a treatment plan to help you manage these symptoms. You can boost your mood by taking medications. Antidepressants, such as fluoxetine and sertraline which are selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), have been beneficial for a lot of people suffering from bipolar disorders. However, these medications may not work for everyone. Your doctor will determine the best drug for you based on your symptoms and medical history. Even during good times it's essential to continue taking your medication. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, your symptoms are likely to return. Talk therapy (psychotherapy) is important in treating bipolar depression. Psychotherapy can teach you to recognize the warning signs of a looming mood episode. It can also teach you and your loved ones how to manage your illness. www.iampsychiatry.com can be done either as a group or individually with other people suffering from bipolar disorder. Some people with bipolar disorders have episodes of mania or high-energy moods. These episodes can be accompanied by delusions or hallucinations, which are false beliefs or perceptions that are not true. If you experience a manic episode that includes these symptoms, it's considered an illness that is serious and you should go to the emergency room immediately. If you've had a previous mania, a psychiatrist can prescribe antidepressants to avoid future manias. They might also prescribe an antipsychotic medication like quetiapine, or aripiprazole to decrease the risk of a depression. They may also suggest electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which can help relieve severe depression. Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a non-invasive therapy that makes use of an electromagnet to transmit electrical impulses directly into the brain. It has been shown that it can treat depression that is not responsive to medications, but does not require general anesthesia.