Psy 270 Depression Paper
Depression
PSY 270
9/27/09
Unipolar and bipolar disorders are both mood disorders that feature depression; however, there is a significant difference between the two.
Unipolar disorder is basically an episode of depression that lasts for at least two weeks. Its symptoms include a depressed mood and noticeable loss of interest in activities one used to enjoy. The person may feel empty or sad, dejected, agitated, anxious, tearful, angry, or humiliated. These feelings last for long periods of time. There may also be significant weight loss or weight gain and the person may experience problems sleeping, fatigue or restlessness. They may feel worthless or have excessive guilt and lose the ability to think clearly or concentrate. Self-blame is common and the person may experience a tendency to put themselves down and feel helpless and pessimistic. Physical symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and general pain. Suicidal ideation or suicide attempts may occur as well.
There are several theories about what causes depression. Stress is a huge one, …show more content…
For the diagnosis of bipolar disorder to be made, the patient must display episodes of both depression and mania. Usually these episodes occur in a cyclical nature. I have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and, for me, my episodes cycle roughly every three or four months.
An episode of mania is one that lasts for at least one week. The person may feel an exaggerated sense of self esteem or importance and experience severe changes in mood, usually making them euphoric or angry. These changes do not coincide with the person’s normal nature. They may become overly talkative, easily distracted, and/or feel as if their mind is racing. Risky activities, such as spending, promiscuous sex, or investments are not well thought out. Some have trouble staying connected with
PSY 270
9/27/09
Unipolar and bipolar disorders are both mood disorders that feature depression; however, there is a significant difference between the two.
Unipolar disorder is basically an episode of depression that lasts for at least two weeks. Its symptoms include a depressed mood and noticeable loss of interest in activities one used to enjoy. The person may feel empty or sad, dejected, agitated, anxious, tearful, angry, or humiliated. These feelings last for long periods of time. There may also be significant weight loss or weight gain and the person may experience problems sleeping, fatigue or restlessness. They may feel worthless or have excessive guilt and lose the ability to think clearly or concentrate. Self-blame is common and the person may experience a tendency to put themselves down and feel helpless and pessimistic. Physical symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and general pain. Suicidal ideation or suicide attempts may occur as well.
There are several theories about what causes depression. Stress is a huge one, …show more content…
For the diagnosis of bipolar disorder to be made, the patient must display episodes of both depression and mania. Usually these episodes occur in a cyclical nature. I have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and, for me, my episodes cycle roughly every three or four months.
An episode of mania is one that lasts for at least one week. The person may feel an exaggerated sense of self esteem or importance and experience severe changes in mood, usually making them euphoric or angry. These changes do not coincide with the person’s normal nature. They may become overly talkative, easily distracted, and/or feel as if their mind is racing. Risky activities, such as spending, promiscuous sex, or investments are not well thought out. Some have trouble staying connected with