Manic depression, or Bipolar Disorder, is thought to be one of the most severe types of depression that people regularly suffer from. It is characterized by sudden and extreme changes in mood. Manic depression is so-called because manic means ‘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 severe. For example, if someone gets 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 onset 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 only 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 periods of 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 loss of happiness. 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 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 just need to 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 is too late.
Also, people who suffer from Manic Depression should see their therapists regularly, in order to be able to get rid of their repressed emotions to someone who is able understand 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 alternatives, a proper and a more lasting relief from Manic Depressive symptoms can best be achieved 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.