Understanding Mood Disorders
Signs and Symptoms of Depression
These lists are not comprehensive. Note also that I have tried to list some of the less obvious and/or clinical, yet still notable symptoms. It is easy to minimize or negate your struggles, but please--ask a professional before making conclusions!
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Consistent sadness, feelings of emptiness
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Irritability (especially with teens)
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Sleep difficulty (insomnia, restlessness, excessive sleeping)
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Changes in tearfulness (more frequently and easily moved to tears, crying out of the blue or for "no reason")
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Loss of appetite
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Isolation and loneliness
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Lack of desire and/or pleasure from activities previously enjoyed (connecting with friends/family, hobbies)
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Thoughts of death, dying and/or suicide
Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
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Mood swings
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Strong shifts in thinking, energy levels, and/or behavior
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Periods of grandiose thinking
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Impulsivity
Ask Elizabeth
Please feel free to confidentially submit your questions to me easchwartz11@yahoo.com and I will respond with information and help for you and many others as soon as possible.
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Resources
- National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH) NIMH will provide you with more information on the signs and symptoms of depression, some of the causes of depression, information about how people experience depression differently (men vs. women, children vs. adults), and helpful tips for yourself or a loved one.
- National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH) NIMH will give you information about the diagnosis and treatment of bipolar disorder as well support for caregivers.
- Postpartum Support International (PSI) PSI has information and support regarding perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
Disclosure: The information provided above and throughout this webpage may not specifically apply to you, your loved one, and/or your situation. Additionally, this is not comprehensive nor may it be used as a substitute for professional care meant specifically for you.