Bipolar Depression - It's Not Just The Blues

Bipolar depression is a component of bipolar disease. It is not a sign that someone is "crazy" or "bad." People who suffer with bipolar disease don't just "snap out of it." They need help to deal with bipolar depression.

They symptoms of bipolar depression are:

The person may appear to have the blues and be sad.
The may stop doing activities they once enjoyed.
They may have a low sex drive.
They may express feelings of hopelessness or guilt
They may not get enough sleep or sleep too much.
Their appetite may change and they may eat too much to cope with the disease or not eat at all.
Be unable to make decisions

Suicidal thoughts are often a part of bipolar depression. Anyone who talks about suicide should be taken seriously. According to the National Institutions of Mental Health (NIMH), suicide was the 11th leading cause of death in the U.S. in 2004, claiming the lives of 32,439 people.

According to the NIMH, if a person with bipolar depression is considering suicide they likely be:

Talking about feeling suicidal or wanting to die
Feeling hopeless, that nothing will ever change or get better
Feeling helpless, that nothing one does makes any difference
Feeling like a burden to family and friends
Abusing alcohol or drugs
Putting affairs in order (e.g., organizing finances or giving away possessions to prepare for one's death)
Writing a suicide note
Putting oneself in harm's way, or in situations where there is a danger of being killed

Bipolar depression can be triggered by many events. Some of these events would appear to bring joy. They include marriage, a new job or the holidays.

But bipolar depression is affected most often by stressors that are devastating. These include divorce, death of a loved one, arguments with family or friends and work-related problems. Alcohol and drug abuse also contribute to bipolar depression. A lack of sleep can also trigger bipolar depression.

It is important to remember that bipolar depression is just one stage of the disease. Those suffering form bipolar disorder may also experience manic phases where they are on top of the world and have seemingly endless energy. Most people suffering from bipolar disease have depression and mania at some point in their lives.

Treatment for bipolar depression varies from patient to patients and depends on the symptoms. Antidepressants are effective for many patients. Psychotherapy is also a part of treatment for bipolar depression. Some patients require hospitalization to deal with their symptoms of bipolar depression.

People with bipolar depression can also help manage their disease on their own. Many doctors say exercise helps relieve symptoms of bipolar depression. A proper diet and regular sleep also seem to help. Alcohol and drugs should be avoided. Reaching out to family and friends can provide a support network to help manage the symptoms of bipolar depression.

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More Bipolar Information

Bipolar Disorder--What It Is And How To Recognize It

Are They Mood Swings Or A Bipolar Symptom?

The Importance of Bipolar Medication

What Does It Mean To Be Bipolar?

Not Just "Crazy"- The Story Behind Bipolar Disease

Bipolar Depression-It's Not Just The Blues