Bipolar depression

Bipolar depression, also known as bipolar disorder, is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).

Symptoms

Bipolar depression is marked by periods of depression, where the individual may feel sad, hopeless, and lose interest or pleasure in most activities. These episodes can alternate with periods of elevated mood, or mania, where the individual may feel euphoric, full of energy, or unusually irritable. These mood swings can affect sleep, energy, activity, judgment, behavior, and the ability to think clearly.

Causes

While the exact cause of bipolar depression is unknown, it is believed to be a combination of several factors including genetics, environment, and altered brain structure and chemistry.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of bipolar depression involves a thorough examination of symptoms, a physical examination, psychiatric assessment, and mood charting.

Treatment

Treatment for bipolar depression typically involves a combination of medications and psychotherapy. Medications used may include mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety drugs. Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy", can be an effective treatment for bipolar depression.

See also

• Mental health
• Depression
• Mania
• Psychotherapy