Manic depression, more properly known as bipolar disorder, affects approximately 5.7 million adult Americans. A major affective (mood) disorder, those afflicted by this illness experience episodes of both mania and severe depression.

It is a serious and very real disease, believed to be brought on by chemical imbalances in the brain. While everyone has up and down moods sometimes, the peaks and valleys of this illness are more severe and can negatively impact all areas of your life.

Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme shifts in mood, thinking, energy and behavior, resulting in manic behavior at one end and then serious depression at the other. More than just a brief change in mood, these extremes are known to last for days, weeks, or even months.

While manic, someone might experience tremendous highs in energy, requiring little sleep. They may act erratically, even dangerously at times, and show severe lack of judgment. Hallmarks of this reckless behavior can include drinking, drug or even food binges, spending sprees, or sexual promiscuity. While in a manic state, a person may experience delusions of grandeur, racing thoughts and increased irritability.

The opposite phase of this illness, depression, is somewhat similar to clinical depression. In a depressive state, a person could have so little energy or motivation that they find it difficult to get out of bed. He or she may experience overwhelming feelings of hopelessness or loneliness. Sometimes, the sufferer may feel that nothing matters and have little interest in the activities they usually enjoy.

While some people may endure both manic and depressive periods equally, it is often the case that the depressive state of the illness is more pronounced. Mania may be mild enough that it is relatively unnoticeable.

In some serious cases, the sufferer could experience psychosis, or a break with reality where the individual’s thinking is affected severely as well as his or her mood. This can happen in either the manic or depressive phases.

Bipolar disorder affects nearly every part of a person’s life. Those suffering from this illness may be more prone to develop diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and migraine headaches. Furthermore, people with bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of committing suicide, and might abuse alcohol or drugs in either phase of the disease (which often worsens the symptoms).

Only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose bipolar disorder. Psychiatric treatment of this disease is extremely important. Medication plays an essential role in treatment, but a well-rounded approach can contribute to recovery. Regular exercise, healthy, routine sleep patterns, a balanced diet and a nurturing environment where stress is minimized can greatly assist in managing this disorder.

Typically, medications are prescribed by a psychiatrist (although in some states, other mental health professionals may prescribe medication as well). There are many different medications, and people respond differently to each one. Your mental health practitioner may need to try several until satisfactory results are achieved.

If you or someone you know is exhibiting the symptoms of bipolar disorder, see a qualified mental health professional as soon as possible, and take heart: proper treatment of the illness can help restore you to a happy, fulfilling life while lessening the effect of both mania and depression.

Ron Zedek is a psychiatrist dedicated to helping people resolve issues and learn coping skills. He provides psychotherapy and innovative, progressive medication in the Las Vegas area for many conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders and others. Powered by SEO 2.0 Services