Manic Depression or Bipolar Disorder is considered one of the most severe types of depression that people usually suffer from. Characterized by sudden and extreme mood swings. Manic depression is named that because manic means ‘mania’, which refers to the ‘ups’ while depression refers to the ‘downs’. Bi-polar also refers to both ends of the spectrum of emotions
A lot of people experience erratic changes in their moods and, sometimes, these so-called mood swings are not just caused by PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome) or stress. Doctors have diagnosed mood swings as a common symptom of depression, when these mood swings are severe. For example, if someone becomes annoyed because a shop does not have his favourite biscuits, it may only a sign of a spoilt childhood, but when becoming annoyed means that person will shout and swear at the shop keeper, it may be the start 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 only for a day or so, they can actually go on for a week or more.
During the ‘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 periods of a depressed state of mind - including feelings of worthlessness and being unloved.
There are various other signs too: irrational guilt, extreme sadness, anxiety attacks, feeling of not belonging, severe pessimism and an obvious loss of pleasure. According to therapists, anyone who is depressed constantly for more than a week can be officially diagnosed as a Manic Depressive.
Despite it being one of the most common and severe types of depressive disorder, Manic Depression can be successfully treated, according to therapists. There’s no reason to worry too much about having it. You just 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.
Also, people 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 obtained from natural remedies, a much more lasting relief from the symptoms of Manic Depressive can best be acquired through seeing a cognitive behaviour therapist. Contrary to some beliefs, when it comes to psychiatric treatments, psychiatrists, preferably those specializing in cognitive behaviour therapy, are still the best ones to visit for a lasting cure for Manic Depression.
Do you think that you need to understand more about the symptoms of bipolar disorder? If so, please go along to our website Treating Depression