Manic Depression or Bipolar Disorder is considered one of the worst types of depression that people usually suffer from. Characterized by sudden and extreme mood swings. Manic depression is named that because manic refers to ‘mania’, which refers to the ‘ups’ while depression refers to the ‘downs’. Bi-polar also refers to both ends of the spectrum of emotions
Many people experience sudden changes in their moods and, sometimes, these so-called mood swings are not just because of PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome) or stress. Doctors have diagnosed mood swings as a common symptom of depression, when these mood swings become severe. For example, if someone gets angry because a shop does not have his favourite biscuits, it may only a sign of a spoilt childhood, but when getting angry also means that that person will scream and swear at the shop keeper, it could be the onset of Manic Depression.
The ‘manic’ periods or ‘ups’ in Manic Depression (or Bi-polar Disorder) are described as the times when a person who has Manic Depression experiences extremely high periods, consisting of heightened energy, sudden outbursts of euphoric mood, extreme irritability, together with racing thoughts and aggressive behaviour. According to doctors, someone suffering from Manic Depression may have these so-called manic ‘periods’ not just for a day or so, they can actually go on for a week or more.
During these ‘low’ or ‘down’ periods, people suffering from Manic Depression may experience very similar symptoms to those who are suffering from ‘normal’ depression. People who are suffering from Manic Depression experience episodes showing a depressed state of mind – including feelings of lack of self worth and being unloved.
There are various other symptoms as well: irrational guilt, extreme sadness, anxiety attacks, feeling of not belonging, severe pessimism and an obvious loss of pleasure. According to therapists, someone who is depressed continuously for more than a week can officially be diagnosed as someone who is suffering from Manic Depression.
In spite of it being one of the most common and acute kinds of depressive disorder, Manic Depression can be successfully treated, according to therapists. There’s no reason to worry too much about having it. You only need to follow the procedures that the therapist tells you and take the prescribed medicine in the correct dosage in order to help you (or your friend or love one) overcome Manic Depression before it becomes a dangerous risk to the sufferer’s life by suicide.
Furthermore, individuals who suffer from Manic Depression should see their therapists on a regular basis, in order to be able to release their pent-up emotions to someone who is able interpret just what it is they are going through a lot better than an untrained person.
Although positive results for Manic Depression can be achieved from natural remedies, a proper and a more lasting relief from Manic Depressive symptoms can best be achieved through seeing a cognitive behaviour therapist. Contrary to some beliefs, when it comes to psychiatric treatments, psychiatrists, preferably cognitive behaviour therapists are still the best ones to consult for a lasting cure for Manic Depression.
Do you think that you have to understand more about the symptoms of bipolar disorder? If so, please go along to our website Treating Depression. This article, About Manic Depression is released under a creative commons attribution license.
