Introduction
You may have heard the term Bipolar I Disorder. You may also have heard the terms Major Depressive Episode, as well as a Manic Episode. However, despite the occurrence of both a Major Depressive Episode and a Manic Episode, there is another type of episode that can occur in Bipolar I Disorder. It is known as a Mixed Episode. This article will describe what a Mixed Episode is, as well as list the symptoms associated with a Mixed Episode.
What Is A Mixed Episode?
According to dual diagnosis, “In most types of bipolar disorder, a patient struggles with episodes of depression and episodes of mania, or high energy, in a cyclical pattern.” However, it is important to note that mixed episodes occur as well. What is a Mixed Episode? A Mixed Episode is defined by the experiences of both mania and depression together. According to webmd, it is important to note that a person experiencing a Mixed Episode may be depressed but also appear overactive at the same time.
What Are The Symptoms Associated With A Mixed Episode?
As stated above, a Mixed Episode occurs when symptoms associated with mania and depression occur together. What does this look like? According to webmd, the following represent the symptoms associated with a mixed episode:
- Mania with mixed features usually involves irritability, high energy, racing thoughts and speech, and overactivity or agitation.
- Depression during episodes with mixed features involves the same symptoms as in “regular” depression, with feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, low energy, feelings of guilt and worthlessness, and thoughts of suicide.
According to http://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/guide/mixed-bipolar-disorder, it is important to note the following:
This may seem impossible. How can someone be manic and depressed at the same time? The high energy of mania with the despair of depression are not mutually exclusive symptoms, and their co-occurrence may be much more common than people realize. For example, a person in an episode with mixed features could be crying uncontrollably while announcing they have never felt better in their life. Or they could be exuberantly happy, only to suddenly collapse in misery. A short while later they might suddenly return to an ecstatic state.
Therefore, a Mixed Episode can be very distinct but is not uncommon.
Conclusion
As always, if you are experiencing symptoms associated with a Mixed Episode, do not self-diagnose yourself. Instead, consult with a licensed physician for further assistance.
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