Manic depression, or Bipolar Disorder, is thought to be one of the worst types of depression that people regularly suffer from. It is characterized by sudden and extreme mood swings. Manic depression is so-named 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 sudden 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 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 angry also means that that person will scream and swear at the shop keeper, it could represent the start of Manic Depression.
The ‘manic’ times or ‘ups’ in Manic Depression are described as the times when a person suffering from Manic Depression experiences excessively 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 as long as a week or even longer than that.
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 episodes showing a depressed state of mind – including feelings of worthlessness and being unloved.
There are various other symptoms as well: irrational 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.
Despite it being one of the most common and acute types of depressive disorder, Manic Depression can be successfully treated, according to doctors. 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, people who suffer from Manic Depression should visit 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 obtained from natural remedies, a proper and a more lasting relief from Manic Depressive symptoms can best be acquired through consultation with a cognitive behaviour therapist. Contrary to some thought, 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.
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