Most people with bipolar disorder have depressive episodes in addition to periods of mania or hypomania. A depressive episode lasts at least two weeks.
A depressive episode can lead to listlessness, concentration problems, lack of pleasure, thoughts of death, lack of energy, insomnia or excessive sleep, decreased or increased appetite, being unable to work and avoiding contact with friends or family.
Depressive episode symptoms
During a depressive episode you often show several of the following symptoms:
- You are indecisive
- You are no longer interested in your environment
- It is difficult to concentrate
- You don’t sleep well
- You are very tired
- You have no appetite for food
- You suffer from physical complaints
- You don’t want to live longer
What can you do yourself?
Regularity is important when you are in a depressive episode. The following tips may help you:
- Go to bed at a set time
- Get up at a set time
- Exercise is good for you: go walking, cycling or exercising
Adequate relaxation is important. Relaxation exercises can help with this.
Ask your doctor for help if you have problems OR contact a Samaritan