However, it's essential to remember that only a qualified healthcare professional can accurately diagnose and provide appropriate treatment for your specific situation. If you are experiencing concerning symptoms, I urge you to seek professional help promptly.
Bipolar type 1 disorder is characterized by periods of mania (elevated mood and increased energy) and depression (low mood and energy). Psychosis can occur during both manic and depressive episodes in bipolar 1 disorder. When it occurs during manic episodes, it is often referred to as "mood-congruent" psychosis, meaning that the content of the hallucinations or delusions is consistent with the elevated mood. For example, someone might believe they have superpowers or are invincible.
On the other hand, during depressive episodes, psychosis may be "mood-incongruent," where the hallucinations or delusions do not match the depressive mood. People experiencing mood-incongruent psychosis during depression might have paranoid beliefs or experience hallucinations unrelated to their feelings of sadness.
Signs of psychosis in bipolar 1 disorder can include:
Hallucinations: Sensing things that are not present, such as hearing voices, seeing things, or feeling sensations on the skin (tactile hallucinations).
Delusions: Holding false and irrational beliefs that are resistant to change even when confronted with evidence to the contrary. These beliefs can be grandiose, paranoid, or bizarre.
Disorganized thinking: Trouble concentrating, speaking in a way that is difficult to understand, or jumping between unrelated topics.
Disorganized or abnormal motor behavior: Exhibiting unusual or unpredictable behavior that may be agitated or slowed down.
Negative symptoms: A reduction in emotional expression, motivation, and ability to experience pleasure.
Social withdrawal: Pulling away from social interactions and isolating oneself.
Cognitive impairment: Difficulty with memory, attention, and problem-solving.
If you're experiencing symptoms like dissociation, visual and tactile hallucinations, and depression, it's essential to discuss these symptoms with a mental health professional. These could be signs of an impending depressive episode with psychotic features, but a proper evaluation is necessary to determine the cause and appropriate treatment plan.
Reach out to a psychiatrist or a mental health provider as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms and receive proper evaluation and support. They can help you understand your experiences better and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.