Manic depression, or Bipolar Disorder, is thought to be one of the most severe types of depression that people usually suffer from. It is characterized by sudden and extreme mood swings. Manic depression is so-named 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 erratic 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 instance, if someone becomes angry because a shop does not have his favourite biscuits, it may just a sign of a spoilt brat, but when getting annoyed means that that person will scream and swear at the shop keeper, it may represent 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 is suffering from Manic Depression experiences excessively high periods, exemplified by heightened energy, sudden outbursts of euphoric mood, extreme irritability, together with racing thoughts and aggressive behaviour. Doctors say that, 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 worthlessness and being unloved.
There are various other symptoms too: guilt, extreme sadness, anxiety attacks, feeling of not belonging, extreme pessimism and an obvious lack of pleasure. According to therapists, an individual who is depressed constantly 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 severe sorts of depressive disorder, Manic Depression can actually be treated, according to therapists. There’s no reason to worry too much about having it, just follow the procedures that the therapist tells you and take the prescribed medication in the proper dosage in order to help you (or your friend or love one) overcome Manic Depression before it becomes too late.
Furthermore, people who suffer from Manic Depression should visit their therapists regularly, in order to be able to get rid of their repressed emotions to someone who is able interpret just what it is they are going through a lot better than an ordinary, untrained person.
Although positive results for Manic Depression can be achieved from natural remedies, a much more lasting relief from the symptoms of Manic Depressive can best be achieved through consultation with a cognitive behaviour therapist. Contrary to some thought, when it comes to psychiatric treatments, psychiatrists, preferably those specializing in cognitive behaviour therapy, are still the best ones to visit for a permanent 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 site Treating Depression