Depression in Adults
In adult life, depression can make completing personal and professional tasks difficult; lack of motivation and feelings of hopelessness compound this problem, creating a cycle of withdrawal that is difficult to break. Symptoms may include fatigue, lethargy, persistent thoughts of death or dying, and feelings of worthlessness. Depression may be triggered or exacerbated by a variety of factors, including complicated grief, unresolved trauma, biochemical factors, and work and relationship stressors.
Bipolar Disorder in Adults
Adults with bipolar disorder exhibit discrete periods of irritability, grandiosity, disinhibition, and/or pressured speech and behavior, alternating with depressed mood, apathy, anhedonia, fatigue, and/or hopelessness. Severe episodes may also involve psychotic symptoms, indicated by a disruption in contact with external reality, including delusions or hallucinations. Untreated bipolar disorder can challenge relationships, and lead to impaired ability to effectively engage in daily personal and professional tasks. Many adults with bipolar disorder also self-medicate with alcohol or drugs, leading to high rates of comorbidity with substance abuse disorders.