At one time, people who suffered from bipolar depression were thought to be possessed by demons. This led to them being starved, beaten, and even sometimes killed by the unsympathetic masses. Thankfully, science has progressed and we now know people are suffering from a mental illness. They need medical help, not an exorcism.
Despite advances, many people still do not understand what bipolar depression actually is. It is not simply a feeling of sadness or poor spirits. It is often a debilitating sense of emptiness that can render the sufferer unable to move.
Bipolar depression is the opposite of the manic state that also accompanies bipolar disorder. It is characterized by an extended period of feeling helpless and unmotivated, as well as losing interest in all activities once considered pleasurable.
This type of depression affects over 5 million Americans. The symptoms usually begin in adolescence, although there have been cases of the disorder not occurring until adulthood.
Is It Really A Disease?
MRI scans done on the brains of people who suffer from bipolar depression show them to be different from people who are not known to suffer from the disease. People who have low serotonin and thiamine levels are more likely to suffer from bipolar depression.
Bipolar depression has been shown to increase the risk of suicide. It can also destroy interpersonal relationships, and render a person unable to work or even live on their own. That’s why early diagnosis and treatment is considered so important.
The Different Types Of Bipolar Depression
There are four different types of bipolar depression, with Bipolar Type I being the most severe. This type often requires hospitalization until the patient is stabilized.
Bipolar Type II is less severe, but medication is still usually prescribed. The episodes of depression usually do not last as long as they do in Bipolar Type I.
Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified is where the person can usually still function, but at very limited capacity. This can often be the type of bipolar depression that leads to first diagnosis.
Cyclothymia is the mildest form of the disease. This type can often be treated with light therapy, and does not usually progress.
Treating The Symptoms of Bipolar Depression
The two most popular treatments are medication and talk therapy. Very often different medications need to be tried to find the one that best helps the patient.
Talk therapy usually takes the form of cognitive therapy, where the patient will learn how to frame and possibly diffuse an approaching episode. Writing journals are sometimes used as well.
Prognosis
Bipolar depression is a lifelong disorder. Currently, there is no cure. With the proper therapy, however, a patient can still lead a fulfilling life.
