What is Manic Depression?

By Kitty Barker

Manic depression is that state of depression in which the patient suffers from mood swings which go between extreme elation and depression. So while one minute the patient may feel on top of the world the other minute there will be feelings of despair and helplessness. Although there are many factors that cause this kind of depression genetic reasons are the most prominent ones. This means that two thirds of the people suffering from manic depression have someone in their family also suffering from the same. It is not only the moods of the person that get affected by this but there are also physiological changes, there will be heightened activity at some time, sleeplessness at another and it also impacts once social rhythms and thinking abilities.

Varying forms of Manic Depression

Bipolar Depression

There are varying degrees of manic depression which means in some cases the ratio of a person being depressed may be 3:1 while in other cases it could be as great as 37:1. What this means is that a person who has a ration of 3:1 will spend three times as much time depressed than elated. Researchers are also if the opinion that the condition of depression that the patients of Manic depression feel is quite more than that of normal depression and indeed the chances of a person committing suicide is twice as much as someone who is suffering from only depression or unipolar depression as it is called.

Mixed Mania

Manic depression is also known to manifest itself in a Mixed state, this means that the people suffering from it will experience mania and depression at the same time. So they may experience agitation, anxiety, fatigue, guilt, impulsiveness, insomnia, irritability, morbid and/or suicidal ideation, panic, paranoia, pressured speech and rage all at the same time. A typical example would be someone tearful or even crying even when seemingly appearing very cheerful or excited. Such states are the most dangerous and are prone to induce the maximum chances of drug abuse and even suicides.

Rapid and utltradian cycles

Rapid cycling means that the individual tends to swing between one mood and the other quite frequently so while you may find them to be in a euphoric state at 10 in the morning as if the world belonged to them you can see them at 11 and feel that they are the most helpless people in this world, although such type of hour cycling is not known to afflict a lot of people there are fairly large number of cases who have greater cycles of a day or a month.

Famous people having manic depression

Although manic depression is a mental disorder and one must take all steps to ensure that one is treated of this condition there are several famous people who have had this kind of illness. And at the same time these people also attribute the reason for their creativity to having some sort of mania which helped them in the creative work they did. Indeed this is not to mean that you should not get yourself treated. If you were suffering from this disorder as it is a dangerous situation and many people like Kurt Cobain who was the lead singer of the rock band Nirvana have ended up committing suicide because they could not control it.

While most such celebrities have had turbulent life they were able to control it and live a more or less normal life. It would surprise most to know that it is thought that a large number of artists, writers and other celebrities like Vincent Van Gogh, Mark Twain, Axl Rose of Guns n Roses, Ozzy Ozbourne, Edgar Allen Poe, Isaac Newton, Florence Nightingale, Jimmi Hendrix, Ralph Waldo Emerson and even Winston Churchill were suffering from it.

In the end with proper treatment this illness can be controlled and taken care of and the list of successful people who have gone through their lives with this disorder should give the patients comfort that not only are they alone, people suffering from similar disease have lived happy and successful lives as well.

Author: Kitty Barker - Kitty often writes for and with Depression-Assistance. You can also see more information on this subject at Manic Depression - should this link be inactive, you can paste this link to your browser - manic-depression-assistance.com/ Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kitty_Barker

Manic Depression Revealed

By Chris Glasspool

Bipolar Disorder also known as manic depression is a disorder that falls into the family of depression or mood disorders. Mood disorders effect how a person feels and is totally different to a disorder such as schizophrenia that make it hard for a person to distinguish whats real from what isn't.

Mental disorders or illnesses are not the type of problems that a person can easily overcome, they are not something that they asked for. They can't be overcome by willpower because they are problems that effect the brain. With proper treatment a person suffering with a mental illness such as manic depression can learn to control their symptoms and regain their quality of life.

Manic depression is an illness or disorder that affects a persons mood, one moment they can have a greatly elevated mood ('Manic') followed by a period of feeling low ('Depression'). Its perfectly normal for someone to have high and low moods but someone suffering from manic depression experiences greatly exaggerated highs and lows. Because manic depression is a chronic condition these episodes may come and go but they never truly go away untreated.

Someone in a manic phase of their depression may have a very high self-esteem, they may take risks that they would not normally take such as abusing drugs and alcohol or driving in a reckless manner. They may spend money in a way they wouldn't usually and its not uncommon for them to have a higher than usual sex drive. Manic depression may also make someone suffer from sleep deprivation making them seem angry or irritable, this is due to them having an increased energy level making them feel high.

A person in the depressive stage of their illness is vastly different from the manic stage in that they suffer from feelings of hopelessness, guilt or even wanting to die. A change in appetite, a decrease in energy and an increase in the ability to make decisions can occur. Stomach aches and headaches is also a common part of the depressive state of Manic Depression.

In the United States more that 15% of all illnesses are mental illnesses. This equates to more that all forms of cancer or problems associated with drug and alcohol addiction. If you know of someone that has been diagnosed with manic depression then they are in good company. It is estimated that around two to 4 percent of the worlds population of 222 million suffer from some form of manic depression.

Treatment of manic depression.

Its not common knowledge but there is no cure for manic depression, but the symptoms can be treated and controlled by the use of medication. Acute symptoms caused by severe episodes of mania or depression are treated with some specific medication whilst other medication is used to prevent future episodes from occurring. These types of medications are referred to as 'maintanance threrapy'.

In addition to medication, people with manic depression can benefit from psychotherapy as part of their treatment process. The therapy process is good because it can make someone come to terms with their illness and see exactly what it means for them. Because of this, someone can better understand how their illness or disorder effects their relationships with their family and friends.

If the person undergoing treatment is having a depressive episode the therapy may help them to adopt some thought processes that are positive instead of the negative ones that they have that make them depressed. They may be able to recognise when a manic or depressive episode is starting and seek out the appropriate help quickly. If other family members attend the therapy too they will better understand the disorder and may too be able to help in the future.

Manic depression is a chronic but treatable mental illness. Getting proper treatment is key to having a good quality of life.

This article was composed by Chris Glasspool of http://www.depression-revealed.com the number one resource for depression related information. Please feel free to distribute this article. The only condition is that this paragraph remains intact. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Glasspool

Manic Depression

By Scott Wardell

According to The Cleveland Clinic Department of Psychiatry and Psychology: "Bipolar disorder used to be known as manic depressive disorder. It's a serious illness, one that can lead to risky behavior, damaged relationships and careers, even suicidal tendencies -- if it's not treated".

Bipolar disorder involves extreme changes in moods; also known as poles. These mood changes or swing range from mania behavior (highs) to depression (lows). In between these mood swings, an individual with Bipolar disorder may experience a normal mood. The Cleveland Clinic of Psychiatry describes manic behavior as "an increasingly restless, energetic, talkative, reckless, powerful, euphoric period. Lavish spending sprees or impulsive risky sex can occur. Then, at some point, this high-flying mood can spiral into something darker -- irritation, confusion, anger, feeling trapped."

"Depression" is an opposite mood or behavior that is characterized by feelings of sadness, crying, sense of worthlessness, loss of energy, loss of pleasure and sleep problems. Pattern of highs and lows vary from person to person. This is why Bipolar disorder is often a complex disease to diagnose. For some, mania or depression can last for weeks or months or even years. For others, bipolar disorder occurs frequently and with dramatic mood changes.

Causes of Depression

The causes of depression are many. Depression is a complex disease that can occur as a result of a multitude of factors. For some, depression occurs due to a loss of a loved one, a change in one's life, or after being diagnosed with a serious medical disease. For others, depression just happened, possibly due to their family history. Factors involved in causing depression, include: A history of depression in the family: It is believed that depression is passed genetically from generation to generation, although the exact way this occurs is not known. Grief from the death or loss of a loved one. Personal disputes, like conflict with a family member. Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. Major events that occur in everyone's lives, such as moving, graduating, changing jobs, getting married or divorced, retiring, etc. Serious illness: depressed feelings are a common reaction to many medical illnesses. Certain medications Substance abuse: close to 30% of people with substance abuse problems also have major depression. Other personal problems: these may come in the forms of social isolation due to other mental illnesses, or being cast out of a family or social circle.

The Body vs. The Mind

Medical research indicates that people suffering from depression have changes in their brain compared to people who do not depressed. The hippocampus, a small part of the brain that is vital to the storage of memories, is smaller in people with a history of depression than in those who are not depressed. Serotonin, a body chemical, has been found to have a lower receptor rate that is controlled by the hippocampus portion of the brain. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter and chemical messenger that allows communication between nerves in the brain and the body has been a leading factor and natural body chemical discussed by medical doctors who treat depression. As of today, scientists don't know why the hippocampus is smaller in individuals diagnosed with depression. Researchers have found that cortisol (a stress hormone that is important to the normal function of the hippocampus) is produced in excess in individuals diagnosed with depression. Cortisol has been found to have a toxic or poisonous effect on the hippocampus.

Some doctors believe it's possible that some depressed people are born with a smaller hippocampus that leads to a greater possibility of developing depression. Depression is complex. It is an illness with many contributing factors. As doctors reach a better understanding of the causes of this illness they will be able to make better diagnoses and which will lead to more successful prescribed effective treatments.

Genetics and Depression

There is evidence that suggests a genetic link to depression. Children, siblings and parents of people with severe depression are much more likely to suffer from depression than are members of the general population. Multiple genes interacting with one another in special ways probably contribute to the types of depression that runs in families. Scientists have not been able to identify a "depression" gene. Information for this article was obtained from: The Cleveland Clinic Department of Psychiatry and Psychology.

IF YOUR ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS, A DESIRE TO HURT YOURSELF, CALL 911 OR SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY.

Scott Wardell is a school counselor and created ScottCounseling.com to provide parents with 100's of free parenting articles to assist parents with their parenting skills. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Wardell

Manic Depression

By David McEvoy

Manic depression, also known as Bipolar disorder is characterised by extreme fluctuations in mood ranging from periods of intense "highs" or mania to periods of severe depression or "lows", however, in reality it is much more complex than that as there is no clear pattern and some can even experience mixed state bipolar, with a combination of both mania and depression.

There is also no known single cause of Bipolar and no way of predicting who will develop it although it does appear to be a tendency for it to run in families suggesting that genetics play a part. According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Bipolar affects around one in one hundred adults, although it is possible that these figures are on the low side as it is believed that many people with Bipolar will not seek help due to denial, misunderstanding and lack of knowledge surrounding the condition. It affects both men and women equally and usually begins in early adulthood but the way it manifests itself is anything but consistent. Episodes can be triggered by stressful events and physical illness or even nothing at all. So how do you know if you have Bipolar disorder?

Symptoms of a manic episode include:

A manic episode can be diagnosed if at least 3 of the symptoms occur along with an elevated mood for most of the time for at least a week. If the overall mood is one of irritability then another 4 symptoms must be present.

• Increased energy, activity, and restlessness
• Excessively "high," overly good, euphoric mood
• Extreme irritability
• Racing thoughts and talking quickly, jumping from one idea to another
• Distractibility, lack off concentration
• Little sleep needed
• Unrealistic beliefs in one's abilities and powers
• Poor judgment
• Spending sprees
• A lasting period of behaviour that is different from usual
• Increased sexual drive
• Abuse of drugs, particularly cocaine, alcohol, and sleeping medications
• Provocative, intrusive, or aggressive behaviour
• Denial that anything is wrong

Symptoms of a depressive episode include:

A depressive episode can be diagnosed if five or more of these symptoms are present for most of the time for a period of at least 2 weeks.

• feeling sad, anxious, or empty mood
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, including sex
• Decreased energy, a feeling of fatigue or of being "slowed down"
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
• Restlessness or irritability
• Sleeping too much, or can't sleep
• Change in appetite and/or unintended weight loss or gain
• Chronic pain or other persistent bodily symptoms that are not caused by physical illness or injury
• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts

The gaps in between a high and a low episode can vary significantly with each individual. Some people will experience rapid shifts between moods and others will change more slowly over a period of time. Conventional treatment usually consists of some form of mood stabilising medication to reduce the severity and duration of the episodes, for example, Lithium is the most commonly used. Achieving the correct dosage is crucial as high levels of Lithium can be toxic so this will be carefully evaluated and monitored by a GP or health professional. However, it doesn't always prove to be effective and isn't suitable for everyone. The side effects can be difficult to cope with for some people and include, thirst, nausea, weight gain, anxiety, shakes, dry mouth, disturbed sleep, hair loss, and sexual dysfunction.

Types of Bipolar

Bipolar has been classified into types Bipolar 1, Bipolar 2, Rapid Cycling and Cyclothymia.

Bipolar 1

The classic symptoms of Bipolar 1 involve recurrent manic and depressive episodes with either stable periods in between or going directly from a depressive episode into a manic phase or vice versa. Periods of depression vary from individual to individual and can last for only a short time or for months.

Bipolar 11

This type of Bipolar presents with only mild or perhaps even no manic periods at all but more depressive episodes than periods of mania. This type is more common in women.

Rapid Cycling

Bipolar is classified as rapid cycling type if the person experience more than 4 manic or depressive episodes or fluctuations between both within the space of a year.

Cyclothymia

A less severe form of mood swings but they often persist for longer than those with other types of Bipolar.

Conclusion

Bipolar disorder can be distressing for both the sufferer and the family and friends closest to them. Neither they nor the person with Bipolar can know when an episode of depression or mania is likely to occur or how long it will last. Relationships, occupation and finances can all suffer leading to more stress and worry and a worsening of the symptoms. Apart from seeking professional help and finding out as much as you can about the condition, it is advisable for both the sufferer and their loved ones to learn how to recognise the warning signs and triggers that can precipitate a manic or depressive episode so appropriate action can be taken to minimise any negative effects.

Depression is a serious condition that can strike anyone at anytime. For more information about the symptoms of depression and self help come and visit fighting depression Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_McEvoy

Manic Depression

By Robert Kokoska

Also called bipolar mood disorder, manic depression is a very serious disease of brain associated with extreme shifts in moods, body functioning and behavior. Just a few years back, manic depression was glorified as a trait so common with many well known artists, composers and brilliant writers; but in reality, thousands of lives have been lost or their career ruined due to this strange disease. An extreme case of manic depression has even lead to many people committing suicide. This debilitating disease affects almost 3 million Americans and 1.5 millions Europeans, and both men and women are equally troubled by this disease.

Manic depression usually starts occurring during early teenage or even during childhood; the symptoms are manifested by irregular cycles or episodes of maniac tendencies, depression and mood swing, often disrupting normal daily life. Three different types of episodes are associated with manic depression and each one of them is quite different from the other. Episodes of depression signify a persistent sad or withdrawn mood, while an episode of mania may show frequent or abnormal mood swings from one extreme to another. However, a mixed or combined state that consists of both mania and depression is probably the most difficult stage to manage and treat.

Signs and symptoms which occur during an episode of mania are:

1. Enhanced energy, high state of excitability and increased activity

2. Feelings of euphoria, greatness and generally excited mood

3. Gets irritable even at the smallest of incidences.

4. Lightening speed talk, thoughts and changing ideas.

5. Lack of concentration accompanied by less sleep.

6. Feelings of grandeur and false belief in their own capacity.

7. Lack of a good judgment

8. Unusual behavior that is easily recognizable.

9. Easily provoked, excessive intrusion in other’s affairs, state of aggression and angry.

10. Provocative, intrusive, or aggressive behavior

Signs and symptoms which occur during an episode of depression are:

1. Frequent sad, melancholic or empty mood

2. Feelings of dejection, guilt, or helplessness

3. Progressive loss of interest in day to day activities.

4. Depleted energy levels and feeling of tiredness.

5. Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decision

6. Suicidal talk and tendencies

During early part of the illness these episodes are usually separated by a period of no symptoms and the patient usually feels very good and behaves normal. However, when five or more episodes of illness occur within a year, rapid manic depression sets in and becomes too frequent, leading to extreme consequences. This is also sometimes called a state of rapid recycling, when the degeneration of body and mind sets in at a rapid rate.

A chronic and severe manic depression may lead the patient to a stage of psychosis, when typical symptoms like hallucinations and delusions occur, and such a stage is probably an offshoot of highly dangerous, Schizophrenia. Many people with manic depression will get immense help from a sustained level of treatment and good results are usually achieved by stabilizing their mood swings and other associated symptoms. Highly improvised drugs and medicines like Lithium, atypical antipsychotic medications and high-potency benzodiazepine medications are usually prescribed to patients, depending on the history and intensity of the symptoms. Apart from drugs and medicines, patients are also recommended session of psychotherapy and behavioral therapy.

Are you sick and tired of feeling depressed? Elevate your mood and self-esteem naturally with MindSoothe Depression Capsules Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Kokoska

Manic Depression

By Milos Pesic

Have you encountered a person undergoing extreme mood swings, or sudden behavioral changes? The person is suffering from bipolar disorder or manic depression. These sudden mood swings can last for hours, days, weeks or even months. Bipolar disorder or manic depression results in quite distinct mood fluctuations that, once traced and analyzed, can be anticipated.

You are in depression when you deviate yourself from your normal activities. Your zest for life gets a backseat because of depression. There is a tendency to isolate oneself from the external environment and develop this strange behavior, which highlights your lack of confidence. Always remember that when you are in depression, others are also affected by the rough patches in your life.

Bipolar disorder or manic depression is not restricted to any particular age group. Though bipolar disorders usually start during late adolescence or early adulthood, they can also affect children or elderly people. This form of manic depression is not restricted to a particular sex, i.e. male or female, or to a particular race or class. It must be however notified, that manifestations of bipolar disorder or manic depression is different in men and women.

Once diagnosed, bipolar disorder or manic depression can be treated under proper medication and consultation with medical experts. Usually, bipolar disorder or manic depression is associated with certain general types of mood swings, namely, hypomanic episode, a major depressive episode, and a mixed episode.

Bipolar disorders or manic depression can be either categorized under Bipolar I disorder or Bipolar II disorder. Bipolar I disorder is characterized by elevated moods for at least a week, talkativeness, decreased need of sleep, flight of ideas, and so on. Bipolar II category, on the other hand, is characterized by depressive mood behavior with at least one hypomanic episode. The second disorder seriously hampers the social life of the patient because of erratic mood changes.

Bipolar disorders or manic depression are usually indescribable and are no instant cure for the illness. Such forms of depression can go on for hours, weeks or months if left untreated. It is always advisable to consult the doctor immediately if sudden changes in mood occur. Bipolar disorders or manic depression can always be treated with proper medications and therapy. But never leave it untreated because it worsens a person’s mental and physical condition to a great extent.

Always remember, more than doctors, it is the family and friends of the patient who help him or her in overcoming the problem. Always encourage him or her to seek the help and care of a psychiatrist immediately

Milos Pesic is a successful webmaster and owner of Overcome Depression Blog. Visit now to find out all you wanted to know about depression and simple ways to overcome it. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Milos_Pesic

Manic Depression or Bipolar Illness—How Does It Differ From Depression?

By A. Green

What is the difference between manic depression and bipolar? The two are the same illness; however, the term bipolar is used more frequently. This is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in energy, mood, and ability to function.

What is the difference in depression and bipolar? A person in the grip of a major depressive episode needs an antidepressant, whereas a person suffering with manic-depressive symptoms requires a mood stabilizer such as lithium or valproic acid.

In asking what is the difference between manic depression and bipolar, it can be seen that while these are one and the same illness, classifications of the illness do exist. For example, categories include bipolar I, II, and cyclothymic disorder.

In actuality, what is the difference in depression and bipolar? It can be seen that while a depressed person suffers with depressive symptoms, someone with manic-depressive illness experiences periods of elevated mood or mania—when he or she feels on top of the world.

In most cases of manic-depressive illness, however, the low moods outnumber manic states. Symptoms are unpredictable and can be severe and prolonged, or mild and of short duration. In evaluating what is the difference between manic depression and bipolar, differences can be seen in how the condition is experienced by those struggling to live with it.

A person suffering from a depressive disorder may feel that it is impossible to come out from under a dark cloud of despair. We could say that this defines what is the difference in depression and bipolar. Conversely, the person who experiences cyclothymic or manic symptoms feels unusually optimistic and full of hope.

If we were to try to pin down exactly what is the difference between manic depression and bipolar, it might be helpful to examine the different manifestations of the illness.

In the first classification (I), the person has experienced at least one manic episode, which may or may not include depressive symptoms; however, in most cases, manic periods will precede or follow depressive episodes in a regular cycles.

In the second classification (II), the illness is accompanied by predominantly depressive symptoms, relieved by occasional episodes of hypomania (elevated mood). Hypomania is typically milder and may not be as obvious as mania.

A third classification is cyclothymic disorder. This is not as severe as I or II but can be chronic. Hypomanic symptoms are often accompanied by or expressed as irritability.

Rapid cycling may also take place, where mood fluctuations swing back and forth a number of times in a year or even several times in a day. Treatment can be particularly challenging because of the cyclical pattern.

It can be seen that, when determining what is the difference in depression and bipolar symptoms, manic-depressive illness is accompanied by periods where a person feels unusually well and on top of things.

Scientific discoveries have revealed interesting facts about the brain and how deficiencies of certain nutrients toy with functioning. People with disturbances in neurotransmitters may have lower levels of omega 3 fatty acids; 5-HTP has been shown to have antidepressant effects in manic-depressive illness; in recent studies, low levels of folate were linked to mania; and mania and depression have been linked to B12 deficiencies.

Natural remedies work to restore neurotransmitter functioning by combining specific ingredients that target imbalances. When the brain is supplied with the neuronutrients it needs, it has the ability to heal itself.

In answering the question, what is the difference between manic depression and bipolar , it can be seen that the disorder manifests in differences in symptoms, which are signs that the brain is malfunctioning.

Gaining an understanding about depressive or manic-depressive symptoms can help when you are struggling to understand why you feel the way you do and when you are considering treatment strategies. It is always important to obtain advice from a qualified practitioner for treatment of either condition.

Athlyn Green is an avid health enthusiast with an interest in natural remedies for treatment of health disorders. She has contributed to What Is The Difference In Depression And Bipolar, a section of http://www.beat-your-depression.com dedicated to natural treatments and prescription drug alternatives for this disorder. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=A._Green