Thoughts That Often Accompany Bipolar Depression
Mental health care professionals talk a lot about the symptoms that come with a depressive episode, but they rarely talk about the thoughts that come such an experience. I have always found this to be disappointing. Whenever I research depression, I find a list of symptoms (like the ones I previously provided). But, there is a noticeable lack of information about the thought patterns that come with this aspect of bipolar disorder.
I think talking about this is very important. Bipolar depression can be life-threatening. Many people make the tragic decision to end their own life during a depressive episode. Did you know there are twice as many suicides in the United States every year than there are homicides? Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States. I think this is primarily due to the thoughts that show up when depression rears its ugly head (whether you have bipolar or not).
When bipolar depression sets in, a relentless and unending stream of negative thoughts flood your mind. The tricky part is, they come to you in your own voice. They sound like reasonable, rational thoughts that have real value. Listening to these thoughts day after day can wear you down – as if you weren’t already feeling bad enough.
Here are some of the thoughts that often accompany bipolar depression:
- I am worthless. I can’t do anything right. Why bother doing anything at all?
- I am a burden to my friends and family. They would be better off without me.
- This is never going to end. I can’t handle the pain anymore. I should kill myself.
- Death will put an end to my pain. I want to die.
- I have been on this emotional rollercoaster for years now. It’s never going to get better.
- No one really loves me. I am all alone. I don’t want to be here anymore.
- I am exhausted from this fight. I give up.
- Life just goes on forever, and I don’t want to do it anymore.
- Life sucks.
- I have nothing good to look forward to.
- I have tried everything to get well. Nothing ever changes.
- I am completely hopeless, and there’s nothing I can do about it.
These are just a few of the many thoughts you might have when you are experiencing a depressive episode. You have to recognize these thoughts for what they are. They are lies manufactured by a sick mind. The truth is, the depression will pass, and you will stabilize. You are loved, you are valuable, you do have worth, and the world would not be the same without you in it. Don’t give up.
A Word Of Caution About Self-Diagnosis
When you feel depressed, it makes sense to read articles like this one or take online quizzes in an attempt to diagnose yourself. You KNOW you are depressed. You can feel it in your bones. And, you want to get information about your condition and find out what you can do about it.
Nevertheless, it’s always a good idea to see your doctor or mental health care provider to get a proper diagnosis. There may be something else going on that requires you to receive medical care. You could have a vitamin deficiency, for example, which is an easy fix. There is only so much you can learn from internet research. It’s always best to trust a professional when it comes to your mental health.
Plus, if you are experiencing bipolar depression, your doctor can get you on the right track when it comes to getting proper treatment. He or she can guide you through the process of getting well again. You may think you can handle this yourself, but it’s best to reach out for help if you are experiencing symptoms of depression. You don’t have to go through this alone.
Treatment For Bipolar Depression
You should absolutely seek treatment from a mental health care professional if you think you have this condition. Talk to your doctor about what to do next. There are many treatment options available. These include medication or a medication adjustment, different types of therapies for depression, counseling, and peer support groups.
If you are frustrated with your mental health care provider, find someone else. If you are sick and tired of trying different medications, I understand. If you are exhausted from trying everything you can think of to get well, I have been there. Just don’t give up!
It took me years to find the right combination of medication, and I am so glad I stuck with it. I feel awesome, and I am enjoying my life. I never thought that was possible, but, here I am… all happy and balanced and stuff. I genuinely believe you can be too. Just find a compassionate doctor who is dedicated to helping you. Continue to fight for your mental health.
