Bipolar Depression: What It Is & Where It Comes From

Bipolar disorder causes serious and intense shifts in mood. The “highs” someone with bipolar disorder experiences are called mania or manic episodes. The lows are considered depression. 

While depression, itself, is one of the most common mental health conditions, bipolar depression is slightly different. 

Let’s take a closer look at where it comes from and some of the symptoms that go along with it. Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition, so understanding some of the common signs associated with it can encourage you or someone you know to get the help they need. 

What Is Bipolar Depression?

Someone with a traditional diagnosis of depression will deal with feelings of extreme sadness and hopelessness for an extended period of time. While some people are able to function with those symptoms better than others, the biggest “sign” of depression is that the symptoms are long-lasting. 

That isn’t the case with bipolar depression. 

Someone with bipolar disorder isn’t depressed all of the time. Rather, they experience mood swings that take them from euphoric highs to extremely difficult lows. Those low periods of bipolar depression cause symptoms like low self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness, and a loss of interest in daily activities. 

The mood swings caused by bipolar disorder are extreme. It can be scary to see someone you care about sink to the depths of bipolar depression. Even if you’re the one going through it, it can be a frightening experience, especially if your depression leads to thoughts of self-harm or suicide. 

What Causes Bipolar Depression?

It’s not enough to only look at what causes the “low” side of bipolar disorder. Bipolar depression is the result of the mental health condition itself.

Unfortunately, there is no known cause for bipolar disorder. However, researchers believe that things like genetics and certain biological factors can make a difference. For example, it’s more common in people who have a direct relative with the disorder. 

You might also be at a greater risk of developing bipolar disorder if you experience significant periods of high-stress situations. Some research has also suggested that drug or alcohol abuse may contribute, as people with bipolar disorder tend to have actual physical changes within the brain. 

Bipolar Depression is Dangerous

Bipolar disorder should not be ignored. The disorder can create relationship problems with friends and family, make it difficult to focus on your job or school, and in your low periods, you can struggle with suicidal thoughts. Even if they don’t last long, that’s an incredibly risky way to keep living without help.

Some people with bipolar disorder also turn to ways of self-medicating, which can lead to drug or alcohol abuse that might end up fueling the condition further. 

What Can You Do?

Unfortunately, bipolar disorder isn’t curable. As of now, there is nothing that makes the condition simply go away. However, many people are able to live with it and manage their symptoms with the right treatment and support. 

Working with a mental health professional is often the best way to manage bipolar symptoms. It can also help with the extreme mood swings feel less intense. Medications can also help, so it’s important to seek the help of a professional as soon as possible. 

Keep in mind that the treatment for bipolar disorder is lifelong. If you start to notice that your symptoms are improving and your mood swings are happening less frequently, don’t give up consistent treatment. 

If you’re struggling with the symptoms of bipolar depression, it’s never too early or too late to reach out for help with depression therapy. You don’t have to keep living with the extreme highs and lows, and you don’t have to manage your symptoms on your own.