Manic depression, or Bipolar Disorder, is considered 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-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
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 gets annoyed because a shop does not have his favourite biscuits, it may just a sign of a spoilt brat, but when getting 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 suffering from 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 therapists, 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.
During these so-called ‘low’ or ‘down’ periods, people who are suffering from Manic Depression may experience very similar symptoms to those who are suffering from ‘normal’ depression. People who are suffering from Manic Depression will experience periods of a depressed state of mind – including abject feelings of lack of self worth 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 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 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 becomes too late.
Also, people who suffer from Manic Depression should consult their therapists on a regular basis, in order to be able to release their pent-up emotions to someone who is able understand 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 alternatives, a proper and a more lasting relief from Manic Depressive symptoms can best be achieved through seeing 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 permanent cure for Manic Depression.
