Bipolar Depression: Let’s talk about the dark side which we never talked about

Depression, a word most used and least understood. More than half the people we meet every day, you may or may not realize are suffering from some kind of depression. They all have a journey full of different struggles every day. It might be depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep apnea or any other mental sickness which makes it difficult for a person to survive through a day. Unknowingly or sometimes even knowingly such people are mocked.

They are under immense pressure to behave ‘Normal’ and hence it leads to the worse circumstances ever.

In the recent times, we’ve got to know about a lot of unpleasant events. A lot of people have lost their lives to depression including some of the renowned names such as Chester Bennington, Robin Williams. Recently a porn star also committed suicide due to depression. It is truly said, depression doesn’t have a mood or face. It exists and all we can do about it is to give and show love and care.

What is Bipolar Depression:

Bipolar disorder (once known as manic depression or manic-depressive disorder) causes serious shifts in mood, energy, thinking, and behavior—from the highs of mania on one extreme to the lows of depression on the other. More than just a fleeting good or bad mood, the cycles of bipolar disorder last for days, weeks, or months. And unlike ordinary mood swings, the mood changes of bipolar disorder are so intense that they interfere with your ability to function.

Symptom:
During the depression phase of bipolar disorder, you might:

Feel sad, worried, or empty

Have little to no energy

Feel like you can’t enjoy anything

Sleep too little or too much

Have a hard time getting out of bed

Eat too little or too much

Have trouble focusing or remembering things

Have a hard time making decisions

Think about suicide or death

You could have all of these symptoms or some of them. Someone with bipolar disorder can sometimes feel very sad but also full of energy. The surest sign of a phase of depression is that you feel down for a long time, usually at least 2 weeks. You might have these episodes rarely or several times a year.

During a manic episode, you might impulsively quit your job, charge up huge amounts on credit cards, or feel rested after sleeping two hours. During a depressive episode, you might be too tired to get out of bed, and full of self-loathing and hopelessness over being unemployed and in debt.

The causes of bipolar disorder aren’t completely understood, but it often appears to be hereditary. The first manic or depressive episode of bipolar disorder usually occurs in the teenage years or early adulthood. The symptoms can be subtle and confusing; many people with bipolar disorder are overlooked or misdiagnosed—resulting in unnecessary suffering. But with proper treatment, self-help, and support, you can function normally and lead a rich and fulfilling life.

What to Do When You’re Depressed

The most important step you can take is to start and stay on a bipolar treatment plan. Most include a mix of medicine and talk therapy. Your doctor might prescribe a few different kinds of medication, including mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and antipsychotic drugs. Talk therapy can also help you control stress and recognize your symptoms sooner. Another type of therapy, called cognitive behavioural therapy, teaches you good ways to handle the negative thoughts that come with depression.

You can take other steps to fight depression, too:

Don’t drink alcohol or use drugs. They can make your mood worse and keep your medications from working.

Stick to a routine. Try to go to bed, wake up, exercise, and take your medicines at the same time every day.

Don’t make major life changes while you’re depressed. Your doctor or therapist may be able to help you schedule absences from work if you need them.

Ask a family member or friend for support. They can help you keep up with your appointments and medications.

If you are thinking about suicide or hurting yourself:

Tell someone who can help you right now
Call your mental health professional
Call your doctor
Call 911 or go to the emergency room