How to Recognize Bi-Polar Depression

Posted 17-11-2009

Bipolar depression is an insidious disease that can alter one’s life significantly.  Unlike clinical depression or other types of mental illness, bipolar robs one of the ability to make rational decisions regarding his/her life or the lives of others.

Sometimes termed manic depression, Bi-Polar disease has its own set of symptoms as opposed to other serious depressions.  These include extreme fluctuations in mood.  On the manic side, one might become extremely happy and euphoric or extremely agitated. This high energy spell may last a few hours to a few months.  The person does not seem to need as much sleep and sometimes experiences auditory or visual hallucinations.  Racing thoughts and an increase of the rate of speech are other signs of mania.  Sometimes a person’s sex drive will increase and he or she may become quite promiscuous.

During the depressive stage of bi-polar, the symptoms are similar to those of other depression disorders:  Sadness, loss of enjoyment in things that once gave pleasure, excessive sleepiness, lethargy and loss of energy. Sometimes extreme weight gain or loss occurs.  Loss of libido and feelings of apathy are typical.  Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness overwhelm the depressed individual.  Suicidal thoughts and often, attempts, are signs of severe depression.

Bipolar depression can be difficult to diagnose.  Only a board certified psychiatrist can make the determination.  Often, this diagnosis is made only after a person has exhibited such irrational behavior that someone else insists he or she get help.

The Villa Orlando and Pasadena Villa’s Smoky Mountain Lodge are adult intensive psychiatric residential treatment centers for clients with serious mental illnesses. We also provide other individualized therapy programs, step-down residential programs, and less intensive mental health services, such as Community Residential Homes, Supportive Housing, Day Treatment Programs and Life Skills training. Pasadena Villa’s Outpatient Center in Raleigh, North Carolina offers partial hospitalization (PHP) and an intensive outpatient program (PHP). If you or someone you know may need mental health services, please complete our contact form or call us at 877-845-5235 for more information.