‘Manic Depression’, or ‘Bipolar Disorder’, is considered one of the most severe kinds of depression people usually suffer from. It is characterized by sudden and extreme changes in mood. Manic depression is so-called because manic refers to ‘mania’, which means 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 become extreme. For instance, if someone becomes annoyed because a shop does not have his favourite biscuits, it may just a sign of a spoilt brat, but when becoming annoyed also means that that person will shout and swear at the shop keeper, it could represent 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 is suffering from Manic Depression experiences extremely high periods, exemplified by heightened energy, sudden outbursts of euphoric mood, extreme irritability, together with racing thoughts and aggressive behaviour. Therapists say that, 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 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 periods of a depressed state of mind – including feelings of worthlessness and being unloved.
There are various other symptoms as well: 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 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 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 only need to follow the procedures that the therapist gives 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 is too late.
Also, individuals who suffer from Manic Depression should see their therapists regularly, in order to be able to release 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 alternatives, 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.
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