Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety . . . oh my
Some of the complicated mental health issues categorized as “mood disorders” include depression, seasonal affective disorder, bipolar disorder, PMDD, postpartum depression and several others . . . real physical illnesses that affect a person’s moods, thoughts, body, energy, and emotions. Often anxiety is a symptom of a mood disorder.
We all have down days where we feel more melancholy or sad. The concern is when the down days last more than two weeks and affect your life in a negative way such as not wanting to get out of bed, increased agitation, increased crying spells or thoughts of death and dying. If you are feeling sad, down or hopeless for a long period a time, you may be depressed.
With bipolar disorder there can be mood swings that cycle between feeling depressed to a manic phase which includes having a surge of energy that may include a decreased need for sleep. People with bipolar disorder often engage in risky behaviors during the manic phase that may include increased agitation/irritation, spending money recklessly, engaging in risky sexual behaviors, or racing thoughts (these are only a few of the possible symptoms). Diagnosing bipolar disorder can take time and includes a comprehensive psychosocial history with an experienced clinician.
We all feel anxious at some point in our lives . . . heart pounding prior to a presentation, interview or exam . . . butterflies in our stomach before a party or blind date . . . worry over financial issues or family problems can create anxiety. These are all natural reactions and usually the symptoms do not linger for a long period of time. But what if the worry, fear and anxiety seems overwhelming and is preventing you from engaging in life the way you would like? You may be suffering from an anxiety disorder such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder or more severe form of anxiety called post-traumatic stress disorder.
Fortunately there is effective treatment for mood disorders and anxiety that may include medication management to reduce symptoms, individual and group therapy to increase education about the disease and develop effective coping skills, and self-help strategies for lifestyle changes. Treatment for these illnesses can have ups and downs and wellness might not happen overnight. It is normal to wish you could feel better faster or to worry that you will never feel better. However, you can feel better and you can do things to help yourself.
If you feel that you may have a mood disorder or are experiencing anxiety, call me today so that we can review your symptoms and determine a treatment plan that makes sense for you. 919-270-7277 rchesson@chessoncounseling.com