Depression consists of a cycle of highs and lows which comes with bipolar disorder. This prevents people from participating in daily activities or doing the things they want to do. It also makes you feel disoriented and not like yourself. Right treatment thus is necessary and can help make a huge difference.
Therapies tend to work great for people suffering from bipolar depression. Also keeping a track of the symptoms is necessary as it helps to handle the mood changes. Now that you know about bipolar depression let’s talk about some of the symptoms, things to keep in mind, and how to prevent depression.
Signs and Symptoms
People suffering from bipolar depression tend to have the following symptoms and signs:
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Unhealthy eating patterns
- Feeling empty, worried, or sad
- Feeling demotivated to even get out of bed
- Finding it difficult to learn new things or remember things
- Finding it difficult to take decisions
- Lacking enthusiasm and energy to do anything
- Consistently thinking about suicide or death
Someone suffering from bipolar depression can have all of the above-mentioned symptoms or only some. You can feel very sad but fully energetic at the same time. One of the surest signs to confirm a period of depression is feeling down for at least 2 weeks.
Things to Do When Depressed
Starting and staying on the bipolar treatment routine is extremely important. This treatment plan generally includes talk therapy and medicine.
Doctors tend to prescribe various medications which include antipsychotic drugs, antidepressants, and mood stabilizers. Talk therapies also help recognize the symptoms sooner and control stress. Another common therapy is cognitive-behavioral therapy which teaches easy ways to deal with the negative thoughts that are common when depressed.
The Following Steps Will Help Fight Depression as Well:
- Try waking up, going to bed, exercising, and taking your medications around the same time every day
- Don’t do drugs or drink as this might prevent your medications from working and cause further mood changes
- Ask help from your therapist or doctor in case if you are thinking of making any major life decisions
- Your family or friend group can help you with your medications and keeping up with the appointments.
Preventing Depression
The depressive manic phases in people with bipolar disorder don’t follow a particular pattern. People who suffer from bipolar depression can have phases of depression before a manic phase.
With time you’ll be able to notice certain things that will act as warning signs of depression setting in. Catching these symptoms early will help to avoid issues of major depression. And this is where mood charts will come in handy. Keeping track of your sleeping patterns, treatment will help you understand better your triggers.
Even family and friends can help you understand and recognize the patterns. They will be able to keep a lookout for any changes in your behavior that signals an oncoming bout of depression.
Always remember to keep up with your treatment even if you are feeling great. Exercising, eating healthy, going out, and trying new things will help you manage your mood better. You can also join support groups, learn something new and practice yoga or meditation for a healthy happy mood.
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