What is Unipolar Depression?
Unipolar depression is a mood disorder that affects only one side of the brain. It usually begins in young adulthood and lasts for at least six months.
Learn about its symptoms, causes and treatment options.
Unipolar depression is characterized by feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, low energy levels, difficulty sleeping, and thoughts of death or suicide.
What Is Unipolar Depression?
Unipolar depression is a mood disorder that affects one side of the brain. It is also known as major depressive disorder (MDD). MDD is a common type of depression that occurs when people feel sad, hopeless, empty, guilty, worthless, angry, anxious, or irritable for more than two weeks.
The Difference Between Bipolar Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder
There are several differences between bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder. First, bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme highs and lows, while major depressive disorder is characterized by low energy levels and feelings of sadness. Second, bipolar disorder tends to affect only one part of the brain, while major depressive disorder affects both sides of the brain. Third, bipolar disorder usually lasts for months at a time, while major depressive disorder typically lasts for less than two years. Finally, bipolar disorder is often treated with medication, while major depressive disorder can sometimes be treated with psychotherapy.
Treating Unipolar Depression
If you think you might be suffering from unipolar depression, talk to your doctor right away. He or she will ask questions about your symptoms and medical history, as well as perform a physical exam. You should also keep track of any changes in your mood and behavior over time.
Common Medications Used To Treat Unipolar Depression
There are several medications available to treat unipolar depression. These include antidepressants, antipsychotics, and antianxiety drugs. Antidepressants work by increasing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. They are often used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), dysthymia, and bipolar depression. Antipsychotic medications are usually prescribed when other treatments haven’t worked. They help reduce anxiety and agitation associated with unipolar depression.