If you're experiencing concerning symptoms, it's essential to talk to your healthcare provider or a mental health professional to get personalized advice and support.
It's crucial to understand that major depression and bipolar disorder are two distinct mental health conditions, and the symptoms and treatment approaches differ for each. However, in some cases, the use of antidepressant medication can trigger manic or hypomanic symptoms, especially if someone has underlying bipolar disorder that has not been diagnosed yet.
Here are a few possibilities that may explain your experience:
Undiagnosed Bipolar Disorder: Sometimes, individuals with bipolar disorder may initially present with symptoms of major depression, leading to a misdiagnosis. When antidepressant medication is prescribed, it can inadvertently trigger manic or hypomanic episodes in these individuals.
Antidepressant-Induced Mania: In some cases, certain antidepressant medications can cause manic symptoms in individuals with no prior history of bipolar disorder. This can happen even if there are no signs of bipolar disorder, making it a challenging side effect to predict.
Bipolar Disorder Misdiagnosis: Sometimes, a diagnosis of major depression can be inaccurate, and the individual may actually have bipolar disorder. In this case, starting antidepressants might cause mania to emerge.
Individual Reactivity: Every person responds differently to medications. Some individuals might experience unusual side effects or unexpected reactions, such as manic symptoms, even when taking antidepressants as prescribed.
If you're experiencing mania-like symptoms since starting your antidepressants, it's crucial to reach out to your prescribing healthcare provider immediately. They can evaluate your symptoms, consider alternative medications or treatment options, and conduct a thorough assessment to determine if there might be an underlying bipolar disorder that requires a different treatment approach.
Do not stop or change your medication without consulting your healthcare provider, as suddenly discontinuing antidepressants can have adverse effects. Always seek professional advice and guidance to ensure your mental health treatment is safe and effective.