What is Manic Depressive Disorder

Manic depressive, or bipolar disorder is a disease that affects mood, energy and functioning. It is estimated that 1.2 percent of the American population is affected, and symptoms are usually detected in adolescence or early adulthood. People with this disorder experience episodes of depression and mania which recur and disrupt their every day lives. These mood cycles can last for days, weeks, and even months in some cases, putting sufferers, and those closest to them at risk.

This disorder runs in families and may have a genetic component, but scientists agree that there is no single cause for it. Manic episodes are characterized as being the opposite of depressive episodes. Person experiences self-esteem and mood elevations, and rapid speeding up of both thoughts and activity, which can lead to problems with everyday functioning. Someone who is in a manic state often experiences feelings of euphoria, rapid speech, poor judgment, hostility, and if not controlled, these feelings can escalate into psychotic behavior.

Conversely, depressive characteristics can include: crying spells, severe sadness, increased or decreased sleep, wait gain or wait loss, and los of interest in everyday activities. If left untreated depression can lead to thought of suicide and suicide among severely depressed individuals with bi-polar disorder is not uncommon.

Bipolar disorder can only be diagnosed by a mental health professional by analyzing the personal history of the patient and through counseling and therapy. In the manic state, people are often hyperactive, and a trained professional should be able to recognize either the manic or the depressive state quickly. Although no physical test is necessary for the confirmation of diagnosis, physical tests should be done to rule out the possibility that the symptoms are being caused by a physical, rather than a mental condition.

Treatment for manic-depressive disorder is through a combination of therapy and medication. It is also possible to help control symptoms to a certain degree by proper sleeping, proper eating habits, exercising regularly, and relying on a support group of friends and family. Bi-polar disorder requires long-term treatment, even when symptoms decrease. Many people with manic-depressive disorder have happy family lives, successful careers and relationships.

If you suspect that you or someone that you know is suffering from manic depressive or bipolar disorder, be sure to seek treatment immediately. The sooner that the disorder is properly identified, the sooner therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes can be put into place to regulate and treat it.

At some time we have all either dealt with personal depression or know someone who has struggled with it. Having a depression therapist help you means you can recover more quickly.

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