Bipolar depressive describes one mood cycle of bipolar disorder. Referred to as bipolar depression, this change in mood and behavior alternates with a manic phase. As explained on BipolarDepressionInfo.com, the diagnosis of bipolar disorder is made if at least one manic cycle is experienced with cycles of depression. Most people with this disorder, however, experience several manic episodes that alternate with periods of depression. Bipolar depression is a treatable disorder.
Differentiating Bipolar Depression
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, or DSM, is a standardized tool used by mental health care professional in the United States. According to DSM criteria, bipolar depression is recurrent and is preceded by a manic cycle. This pattern differentiates bipolar depression from general depression.
Causes of Bipolar Depression
As explained on PSYweb, scientists theorize that bipolar depression results from a chemical imbalance in the brain. This mood disorder initially presents during early adulthood but can develop at any age. Neither gender or any particular race is predisposed to acquiring bipolar disorder. Bipolar depression tends to run in families but genetics does not offer a complete explanation.
Symptoms of Bipolar Depression
Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety or guilt overwhelm a person with bipolar disorder during the depression cycle. Sleeping disturbances and changes in eating habits are two commonly experienced symptoms of bipolar depression. Interest in favorite or pleasurable activities diminishes during this phase. The persistence of pessimistic thoughts and feelings of hopelessness progresses to thoughts of suicide.
Early Detection
The best prognosis for treatment of bipolar disorder is early detection and intervention. According to Psychology Information Online, hypomania prevents a person from admitting that something is wrong. Hypomania is an early sign of bipolar disorder. During this cycle, a person displays a lot of energy, an unusual degree of moodiness or irritability and impulsive behavior. But the person perceives everything as being fine.
Left untreated, bipolar disorder develops to cycles of complete mania and clinical depression.
Treatment of Bipolar Depression
Recommended treatment for bipolar depression relies on the expertise of a psychiatrist and psychologist. A psychiatrist prescribes and monitors the medication necessary to treat both the manic and the depressive cycles. Cited on Psychology Information Online, the medication, lithium, effectively controls mania and prevents the recurrence of manic and depressive episodes. Antidepressant medications often trigger manic episodes if not taken with mood stabilizing medications. Anticonvulsants are mood stabilizing agents beneficial for treating mixed episodes. A psychologist offers supportive counseling and training in skills to cope with mood swings. Hospitalization becomes necessary in situations of psychotic behavior or risk of suicide.
