Bipolar Depressive Episode

The depressive episode that is often experienced by patients that have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder is often deemed as the single most challenging aspect of the condition. This illness is also referred to as "manic-depressive illness" by the medical professionals as well as the general public.

This disorder is directly related to the brain. There are, at this point in time, three types of episodes that are experienced in individuals. The manic, the depressive, and the mixed. Manic, of course, means that the person is extremely joyful or happy. Depressive includes being extremely low or sad. The mixed episode is a simple combination of both manic and depressive.

Symptoms of a Depressive Episode

When an individual with bipolar disorder experiences a depressive Episode, they typically experience symptoms that reflect in both the mood and the behavior. When it comes to the mood, the individual will often experience excessive worrying over an extended amount of time. They may feel "empty" emotionally.

Most that experience this type of episode will lose interest in the things that they once found intriguing or enjoyable. Many will withdraw socially from others, and in many cases, a general loss of interest in sexual relations with others may be experienced. Behavioral changes often include concentration difficulties, feeling drained, irritability, changes in eating and sleeping, and possibly even suicidal thoughts or attempts.

Mood Stabilizers

Many doctors will prescribe mood stabilizer medications to those that suffer from depressive episodes due to bipolar disorder. Typically, in all cases of the disorder, these types of medications are considered to be the first choice when it comes to treatment.

In nine out of ten cases, the medications that are prescribed in order to control the moods of a sufferer are actually anticonvulsants. Examples of medications used for those experiencing depressive episodes include Lithium, Lamictal, and Neurontin.