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Manic Depression
from: Self Help and WellnessManic depression is a disorder that's also called bipolar disorder or manic-depressive illness. It's a mood disorder, but it's one of extremes. The term manic depression comes from the word mania which refers to the extreme highs and lows someone with bipolar disorder experiences. Bipolar disorder does not get better on its own and must be treated. There are numerous medical research studies being conducted in the area of manic depression, but current treatments often include medication.
With depression, you experience mostly, if not only, low feelings. With manic depression you experience extreme moods ranging from the most euphoric to the deepest depression. During the euphoric stage, the person is very happy and high-strung. The attention span is short, sleep is difficult, and it's hard to concentrate. But one of the most distressing symptoms during this euphoric stage is the loss of good judgment and the desire to be reckless. A person during this stage may charge up all the credit cards, gamble all their money away or engage in risky business or sexual decisions.
During the depression stage, a person with manic depression will experience deep feelings of sadness and guilt. Life becomes hopeless and suicidal thoughts can begin. The person has little interest in any activities and may sleep a lot or very little.
Of course, everyone is different. The euphoric and depression highs and lows can be fairly mild in some cases, but the behavior during these periods can be devastating to a family. A manic depressive can cause great financial and interpersonal problem between family members. Unfortunately, people with manic depression can also experience mood swings within short periods of time. It's even possible to experience both euphoric and depression at the same time.
There are many different things that can trigger episodes of manic depression. They include drug use and a traumatic experience such as a death in the family. There are various treatments used for bipolar disorder. One of the most common is prescription medications that stabilize moods or serve as antidepressants. Another common treatment is counseling sessions with a therapist. A therapist can assist a person with manic depression in identifying when euphoric or depression episodes are about to happen. The goal is to determine if there are certain things which cause the episodes to happen. There are other treatments, but those are the most common.
It's important to understand that manic depression is a serious disorder that needs medical attention. But even while under a doctor's care, you must make sure you take your medication regularly and become aware of what's happening to you emotionally and mentally. Though research seems to indicate this disorder occurs because of faulty neurotransmitters, it's not known for sure. Manic depression is a complicated problem that needs medical attention.
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