Manic Depression: 8月 2012

2012年8月31日星期五

Bipolar Manic Depression - Understanding and Educating Yourself About This Condition

One of the many serious psychiatric disorders out there is called bipolar manic depression. An individual who has been properly diagnosed with it suffers from depression and hypo mania. The length of the cycle from one extreme to the other varies for each individual as does the severity of each episode. There is no cure for this condition but with the right combination of therapy and medication it can be controlled.

Cycling is the process of moving from one end of the spectrum to the other in reference to the person's mood. While the person is in the mania stage they can be quite impulsive and engage in risky behaviors including driving too fast, spending money they don't have, and being violent towards others.

As they move into the depression end of the spectrum the moods change dramatically. They often seek isolation from their friends and family. They also find it very hard to complete routine daily tasks. It is very hard for a person with bipolar manic depression to maintain employment or relationships if they aren't getting the right treatment for it.

It is difficult to understand just how much this condition affects a person. They are unable to lead a normal life personally or professionally. They have three times the rate for divorce as the rest of society.

Research has shown there is a pattern of heredity factors involving bipolar manic depression. This type of mental illness often runs in families, affecting many individuals so some people may be afraid to get married for to have children because of their family history with it.

Heredity isn't the only factor that can lead to this condition though. Suffering from a very traumatic experience including an accident or the loss of someone close to you can trigger manic episodes. It is believed the psychological aspects of bipolar manic depression are what causes the cycling to occur.

Many people either don't realize they have a serious problem or they refuse to seek medical attention for it. Either way a person diagnosed with this type of mental illness that doesn't get treatment is at a very high risk of committing suicide. Statistics show that 12% of those who are diagnosed will succeed in killing themselves. It is believed the numbers are much higher though because of the number of people who don't seek treatment.

It is important to pay close attention to the symptoms of someone you know who may be suffering from bipolar manic depression. Encourage them to get the medical treatment that is available. You also need to help them cope with the changes taking place around them so they won't trigger further manic episodes.

If you found this information on Bipolar Manic Depression useful, you'll also want to read about Symptom Of Bipolar Disorder.

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The Highs and Lows Of Manic Depression

The moods of a manic depressive person are like that of a pendulum swinging from one extreme to the other. As the term itself implies, manic depression is a psychological disorder wherein a person has bouts of mania and depression. Manic depression is associated with extreme mood swings and sudden behavioral changes. In one instance, a person may be extremely buoyant and talkative, has rapid flight of ideas and heightened energy that may lead to decreased amounts of sleep. This manic phase of manic depression can last for hours, days, weeks or months, and it is a racing, giddy state of elevated mood.

This hypomanic episode can present itself as a strange behavior, as although it can pass for sociability, the hypomanic person can sometimes exhibit aggressive behavior. A person usually has a turgid and aggrandized self image when in the hypomanic state. When deeply traced, though, the person usually has fragile self-esteem Another phase of manic depression, also called bipolar disorder is the major depressive episode. This phase basically has a greater drawback as a person's enthusiasm for life takes a back seat. In the major depressive episode, a person deviates himself from his peers and his family and his normal activities are put to a halt.

This might also strike as an unusual behavior as the depressive person isolates himself from his external environment. In the depressive episode of manic depression, a person's self-confidence is not only lacking, but is at an all time low at that. Whereas the hypomanic phase make a person "sociable" to some extent, the major depressive episode can be devastating and debilitating. Another episode of manic depression is the mixed episode, and as the term implies, it is a combination of both mania and depression. Manic depression is categorized as Bipolar I disorder and Bipolar II disorder. Bipolar I is categorically the hypomanic phase and this heightened mood can last from hours, days, weeks or months.

Bipolar II disorder is the depressive episode with at least one hypomanic episode. Bipolar II disorder is more incapacitating as this category of manic depression gravely hampers a person's social life and elicits erratic mood changes. Anybody can potentially suffer from manic depression as it is not exclusive to any specific age bracket. Manic depression episodes initially occur during late adolescence or early adulthood but there are cases wherein children and the elderly have bouts of manic depression. Neither is bipolar disorder confined to a particular gender, race or class although manifestations between men and women are generally different. With proper consultation, medication and therapy, manic depression can be treated.

Once diagnosed, the medications can regulate the mood swings and the accompanying psychotherapy can trace and unravel the psychological causes of the manic depressive bouts. As psychiatry also trace mental disorders to a chemical imbalance in the brain, certain antipsychotic drugs are generally prescribed to normalize the imbalance and neutralize the extreme mood swings. Psychotherapy on the other hand allows the patient to express and relieve his anxieties. Regular therapy is the flushing out of psychic garbage until eventually the patient comes to terms with himself. Manic depression must never be left untreated as it can result to personality deterioration and eventually dysfunctionality.

Family and peer support are also essential for a person to overcome manic depression. Psychological disturbances can be curable. Advances in psychiatry as well as community education and awareness have made it possible for those with mental disorders to live a full and happy life.

The author of this article Rose Windale is a Health and Wellness Coach who has been successful with several natural health programs for many years. Rose decided to share her knowledge and tips through her website http://www.healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free newsletter and enjoy a healthy and happy life.

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Manic Depression Symptoms - The Highs and Lows

Manic depression is a mental disorder that is also called manic depressive disorder. To some, it is known as bipolar disorder. Manic depression symptoms are known to be on the extreme sides of the spectrum. They are either on the high end or the low end. The high-end symptoms are known to be the manic symptoms while the low end is known as the "hypo" symptoms or the depressive symptoms.

This type of mental disorder is hard to spot because the patient may appear to be going well after an episode of depression. Unknown to people around him, he becomes sunny all of the sudden not because he has overcome depression; it is just that he shifted to mania, the other symptom of his illness.

Manic Symptoms

The following are manic depression symptoms observed in patients who suffer from the manic or high end of the mental disease:

o Extreme kindness and euphoric mood.

o Being provocative.

o Inability to concentrate, always and easily distracted.

o Talking very fast due to the racing thoughts that flood the mind.

o Extreme energy level, hyper activity and restlessness.

o Excessive and uncharacteristic spending.

o Incoherence and mixed ideas.

o Increase in sexual drive.

o Intrusive behavior.

o Overly aggressive behavior.

o Very poor judgment

o Believing in his own super powers and unrealistic abilities.

o Extremely irritable.

o Sleeps too little but still have too much energy.

o Abusive use of substances such as cocaine, alcohol, and sleeping medications.

o Falling into a denial stage and not believing that anything is wrong with him.

Depressive Symptoms

The following manic depression symptoms are observed from patients on the low or depressed mode of the disorder.

o Sadness that stays for a considerable length of time accompanied by anxiousness and feeling of emptiness.

o A constant feeling of fatigue and a very low energy level.

o Feeling hopeless and always pessimistic.

o Loss of sexual drive.

o Inability to feel pleasure from anything.

o Inability to concentrate.

o A gnawing sense of guilt and feeling worthless.

o Forgetfulness.

o Restlessness.

o Extreme irritability.

o Inability to make rational decisions.

o Insomnia or oversleeping.

o A drastic loss or gain of appetite that leads to either weight loss or gain.

o Constant body pains that can not be confirmed by medical examinations.

o Suicidal tendencies.

Psychosis is another phenomenon that can be observed as a manic depression symptom. It occurs in both manic and depressive modes of the disorder. It is characterized by hallucination and delusion that is sometimes mistaken for schizophrenia (another form of mental disorder that also manifests hallucination and delusion).

It is important that proper diagnosis be done to tell whether it is manic depression symptom or schizophrenia because the two types of mental disorder need different types of psychological and medical attention.

There are people who exhibit mixed manic depressive symptoms. They manifest both the high and the low end symptoms of the disorder at the same time.

When To Seek Help

As mentioned, it is not easy to determine if a person has manic depressive disorder. If you suspect that you or a loved one is suffering from this mental illness, it would be best if you go and see a psychiatrist to fully assess your condition immediately since the person with this illness has a very erratic and unstable behavior. It can go from shoplifting to promiscuous sexual behavior to suicide. What's more, these behaviors may be manifest within a short period of time.

Proper diagnosis of the manic depressive symptoms is necessary in order to provide the proper treatment needed by the patient. The symptoms are confusing. The assistance of professional people is important in order to recover properly. Administration of medication is almost always necessary to stabilize the patient. Medications would help a patient respond well to other forms of psychiatric treatments such as psychotherapy and cognitive therapy.

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2012年8月30日星期四

Understanding Symptoms of Manic Depression In Children

Until recently, Bipolar disorder, a serious, nevertheless treatable mental illness was rarely diagnosis in young children. The symptoms of this mental illness included extreme changes in mood, energy, thinking, and behavior. Today, doctors can recognize this illness and treat them accordingly in young children.

Also known as manic depression, bipolar disorder symptoms can appear as early as infancy stage. The signs and symptoms include an erratic sleep patterns and much difficulty settling a baby who is diagnosed later in life as having bipolar disorder. Separation anxiety or extreme tantrums and rages may have had happened in the toddler's life.

While children with bipolar disorder do not experience the same syndromes that most adults do, children with bipolar disorder still display signs and traits like changes in mood and behavior that is known to be symptoms of the disorder. Children suffering from moods swings are known as episodes and there are generally two types of episodes. Episodes of extreme elation or agitation followed by high energy are known as mania. Persistent states of extreme sadness or irritability followed by low energy are known as depression.

Unlike most adults, manic depression may seem to be different in children. Children more often suffer from an ongoing mood disturbance that is a mix of mania and depression. This rapid and severe cycling between moods produces chronic irritability and few clear periods of wellness between episodes. Rapid cycling is common among children with bipolar disorder and they may well experience several episodes of mania and depression within a single day. They may also experience mixed cycling where the symptoms of both mania and depression occur simultaneously.

It is also common to find other mental disorders to be diagnosed in bipolar children. These other diagnoses may be in addition to the bipolar disorder, or they may be an incorrect diagnosis of symptoms of bipolar disorder. Some of the commonly found mental disorders are Depression, ADHD (Attention Defecit Hyperactivity Disorder), ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder), schizophrenia, and Tourette syndrome.

Today, it is suspected that numerous children diagnosed with attention-deficit disorder with hyperactivity (ADHD) actually have bipolar disorder instead of ADHD. Misdiagnosis on the doctors' part can lead to giving the wrong medication. This can be a serious mistake as it could easily trigger mania or suicidal thoughts within the children.

For some teenagers, it is found that a dearly loss or other traumatic event could trigger a first episode of depression or mania. In later stages, episodes can happen without any obvious stresses, or could even worsen if stress comes along into their life. Puberty is also a time of risk. In girls, the beginning of menstruation may trigger the illness, and symptoms often vary in severity with the monthly cycle.

Early intervention and treatment is the best bet to help young children recover from bipolar disorder. It is also the best chance for them to achieve stability and grow up to enjoy their life thereafter. Effective treatment should be soughed out as fast as possible to control the symptoms and to diminish the negative effects of the illness on their young lives and those who love them so dearly.

Moses Wright is the webmaster of Manic-Depression.net. He provides more helpful information on Bipolar Disorder, Bipolar Disorder Symptoms and Bipolar Disorder Treatment that you can learn in the comfort of your home on his website. You are welcome to reprint this article if you keep the content and live link intact.

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Major Depression and Manic Depression - Any Difference?

Countless number of patients and their family members have asked me about manic-depression and major depression. "Is there any difference?" "Are they one and the same?" "Is the treatment the same?" And so on. Each time I encounter a chorus of questions like these, I am enthused to provide answers.

You know why? Because the difference between these two disorders is enormous. The difference does not lie on clinical presentation alone. The treatment of these two disorders is significantly distinct.

Let me begin by describing major depression (officially called major depressive disorder). Major depression is a primary psychiatric disorder characterized by the presence of either a depressed mood or lack of interest to do usual activities occurring on a daily basis for at least two weeks. Just like other disorders, this illness has associated features such as impairment in energy, appetite, sleep, concentration, and desire to have sex.

In addition, patients afflicted with this disorder also suffer from feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness. Tearfulness or crying episodes and irritability are not uncommon. If left untreated, patients get worse. They become socially withdrawn and can't go to work. Moreover, about 15% of depressed patients become suicidal and occasionally, homicidal. Other patients develop psychosis--hearing voices (hallucinations) or having false beliefs (delusions) that people are out to get them.

What about manic-depression or bipolar disorder?

Manic-depression is a type of primary psychiatric disorder characterized by the presence of major depression (as described above) and episodes of mania that last for at least a week. When mania is present, patients show signs opposite of clinical depression. During the episode, patients show significant euphoria or extreme irritability. In addition, patients become talkative and loud.

Moreover, this type of patients doesn't need a lot of sleep. At night, they are very busy making phone calls, cleaning the house, and starting new projects. Despite apparent lack of sleep, they are still very energetic in the morning -- ready to establish new business endeavors. Because they believe that they have special powers, they involve in unreasonable business deals and unrealistic personal projects.

They also become hypersexual -- wanting to have sex several times a day. One-night stands can happen resulting in marital conflict. Like depressed patients, manic patients develop delusions (false beliefs). I know a manic patient who thinks that he is the "Chosen One." Another patient claims that the President of USA and the Prime Minister of Canada ask for her advice.

So the big difference between the two is the presence of mania. This manic episode has treatment implications. In fact the treatment of these disorders is completely different. While major depression needs antidepressant, manic-depression requires a mood stabilizer such as lithium and valproic acid. Recently, new antipsychotics, for example risperidone, olanzapine, and quetiapine, have been shown to be effective for acute mania.

In general, giving an antidepressant to manic-depressed patients can make their condition worse because this medication can precipitate a switch to manic episode. Although there are some exceptions to the rule (extreme depression, lack of response to mood stabilizers, among others), it is preferable to avoid antidepressants among bipolar patients.

When considering the use of antidepressant in a depressed bipolar patient, clinicians should combine the medication with a mood stabilizer and should use an antidepressant (e.g. bupropion) that has a low tendency to cause a switch to mania.

Copyright c 2004. All rights reserved. Dr. Michael G. Rayel ? author (First Aid to Mental Illness?Finalist, Reader?s Preference Choice Award 2002), speaker, workshop leader, and psychiatrist. Dr. Rayel pioneers the CARE Approach as first aid for mental health. To receive free newsletter, visit www.drrayel.com. His books are available at major online bookstores.

mike@drrayel.com

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A Typical Manic Depression Symptom is the Need For Speed

Like times when you have a wild assortment of ideas. Then there are other days, weeks, and months were you don't want to get out of bed. One manic depression symptom is evidenced by the inability to sleep. Another is that you begin to notice that you can become irritable almost without provocation, and you don't think anyone is listening to your great, if not somewhat far fetched, ideas.

If you are prone to starting many projects and unable to complete any of them, and then seemingly out of the blue you are apathetic to those same projects, you maybe experiencing a manic depression symptom. Manic depression symptoms are triggered by an imbalance of the chemicals in your brain that keep you from over or under reacting. During a manic phase, which can last weeks and even years, you are highly functioning in your job, especially if you are in the position to delegate.

This is very important to know, because as we've said, completing the projects yourself can get difficult. Not because you don't want to, but because the ideas are coming so fast that you can't keep up with them. You are the life of the party and enjoy going out and probably spend a lot of money. Then comes the crash. The depression side takes over and all of a sudden you don't feel like doing anything.

Jobs are lost, apathy abounds, and life has no meaning. You may even consider suicide, but even you couldn't really say as to why. This is a manic depression symptom as well. Unfortunately, because the two sides of the illness often don't show themselves within weeks and so go largely undiagnosed as the actual illness. You may see your doctor regarding the sleeplessness during a manic episode, but don't know that the depression episodes are part of the same illness.

Without complete information, most cases go misdiagnosed.

Jonathon P. Sapling,

Anxiety and Depression expert.

[http://www.depression-help-treatment.com/overcome-depression.html]

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2012年8月29日星期三

How To Identify And Treat Manic Depression Symptoms

For those that are suffering from manic depression symptoms, there is little good that they see or feel. Manic depression is much different from that of clinical depression. Manic is also and more commonly known, as bipolar disorder, a life threatening condition. If you feel that you have any of these manic depression symptoms, or you know someone that does, it is imperative that you seek out medical attention as soon as possible for them.

In most cases, this type of depression seems to be inherited, but this is not true in all cases, and to various levels of degrees. Unlike clinical depression, manic depression symptoms will go through cycles, from being manic to being depressed. Most of the time, these mood changes will be gradual but they can also be drastic and quickly changing.

Manic Depression Symptoms

Manic depression symptoms are broken down into two categories. The symptoms are different for each part of the cycle that the manic depressive will go through.

Mania State:

Here are some symptoms that may be evident:

· Poor judgment

· Inappropriate elation, feelings of being happy for no reason

· Inappropriate irritability, feelings of being mad, angry or upset that are unfounded

· Insomnia that is severe

· The speed at which you talk is increased. You may be louder too.

· Increased energy that is unfounded

· Disconnected and thoughts that are racing through your mind

· Sexual desires are increased, often to much higher levels

· Social behavior that is in appropriate or out of character

Depressed Symptoms:

Here are some symptoms that may be evident:

· Fatigue or decreased levels of energy. Feelings of being slowed down physically and mentally.

· Loss of appetite, weight loss that is not due to dieting. Or, on the other hand, sometimes people can be overeating and gaining weight.

· Continuously anxious or depressed, saddened mood.

· Feelings that are guilt, helplessness, worthlessness.

· The things that you used to love are no longer interesting. Activities and hobbies seem to be lost.

· Lack of interest in sexual relations.

· Insomnia or suddenly waking up. Or, you may be oversleeping only to feel not rested.

· Thoughts of death, suicide or attempts of this type.

· Loss of concentration, attentiveness.

· In ability to make decisions, even simple ones.

· Physical conditions that do not seem to respond to treatments including chronic pain, headaches and digestive disorders.

Manic depression systems will cycle through these states. In clinical depression symptoms, only the depressed symptoms listed above may be evident. Those that are suffering from these conditions should have depression tests done to diagnoses them properly. Only depression tests can provide accurate information about this condition. Some or all of the manic depression symptoms listed here may be in play. Anxiety and depression treatments are available to treat these manic depression symptoms and depression medicines can help to control these feelings.

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Manic Depression Symptoms and Natural Treatment

Manic depression is a disorder where the patient experiences mood swings ranging from overly high to overly low mood. It is also known by another name - bipolar disorder. When someone suffers from this type of depression, there are unusual and drastic changes in the person's moods and energy levels.

This type of depression can hit both men and women. It can be found in people of all ages and from all walks of life. Genetics can play a role in manic depression as it is sometimes found to run in a family. This form of depression has a recurring pattern to it. It needs continuous and probably long term treatment. One of the most important things in treatment is to have proper sleep at regular timings.

Most people resort to medicines for treating manic depression symptoms. Mood stabilizing drugs and antidepressants are prescribed to patients. The thyroid levels of the patient will also be monitored as a majority of bipolar patients also suffer from abnormal thyroid functioning.

It is important not to lose hope or courage while trying to treat manic depression. Whenever you are faced with any doubts, you have to show strong resolve and fierce determination. If you are determined to overcome this disorder, then you may find within yourself enough courage to face hurdles and disappointments.

I suggest that you avoid medication for manic depression treatment. Medicines can cause unwanted side effects. There are other ways of treating this disorder like herbal remedies and even behavior therapy. Herbal remedies may not have as many side effects as prescription medicine. So they are a good option if you want a natural treatment.

Keep in mind that there is a cure for every disease and disorder on this planet. For treating this disorder, you should seriously consider behavior therapy. It teaches you how to manage your emotions and avoid mood swings.

Learn more about manic depression symptoms here. Find out more about treating depression naturally.

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Manic Depression Symptoms

In most of the cases of Bipolar Depression, sometimes called Manic Depression, the symptoms are akin to other mental illnesses, therefore, making it difficult to get diagnosed properly. Normally, this manic depression is initially wrongly diagnosed as major depression.

Due to severe mood swings, manic depression is associated to other mood disorders which also confuses the patient. Its not necessary that the patient will describe each and every symptom in full minute details to his/her doctor. And this lack of proper description leads to wrong diagnosis. This is the reason for considering manic depression as incurable or life-threatening in some cases.

So, here I am going to enlist the appropriate manic depression symptoms to prevent you from getting the treatment that is not right for you. But keep one thing in your mind for certain that manic depression symptoms vary from person to person. You will have to see what is there in you.

So, go through the MAJOR depression symptoms first which always makes one confused:

1. Feeling sad like hell or in the blues

2. Losing interest completely in things the person used to enjoy, including sex

3. Feeling of being worthless, hopeless, or guilty for nothing (as a burden on others and on this earth).

4. Lack of sleep or sometimes no sleep at all

5. Drastic weight loss or losing appetite

6. Loss of energy or feeling tired

7. Restlessness

8. Loss of concentration or losing the power to make decisions

9. Suicidal thoughts

Now come the MANIC depression symptoms which you want to know:

1. Energy level highly raised, more than normal

2. Not feeling the need to sleep because of high energy level

3. A wavering mind due to too many racing thoughts in mind and mood swings at peak

4. Easily distracted mind or loss of concentration

5. Getting more talkative than usual or feeling pressurized to talk more and more from within

6. Self-confidence touching great heights than usual

7. Risk-taking factor gets increased rapidly or loss of fear in mind

8. Loss of the determination to complete the tasks in hand

9. Confused mind

These mood swings are very common but if you are a bipolar depression sufferer, then you may have times of mania and depression along with these mood swings. This can really make your life unbearable for yourself or your loved ones. But with a suitable treatment, you can get rid of bipolar depression and you can live a normal life.

An important way for you to manage your bipolar depression on your own is to keep a record of all the symptoms you observe in you. Keep a record of what you feel and at what time. Tracking your symptoms is a great help to your doctor and for a much appropriate treatment for you.

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Manic Depression Treatment - How Can it Be Treated

What is manic depression and how can it be cured? Manic depression is also usually called bipolar disorder. To explain it, it usually is manifested with a lot of either highs or lows in one's behavior as well as emotions. This is characterized by gradual dramatic mood switches that usually affect a person's judgment as well as social behavior. Because this disorder affects one's thoughts, it definitely causes embarrassment alongside other serious difficulties.

A person with manic depression may sometimes feel so active and might even like to be really productive. They may sometimes really feel good about themselves, and it can even reach a point that they would think that they really are a lot better than other people around them. But also sometimes they can really feel useless, that their efforts are worthless both in their personal and professional lives, and more than these, they also may have suicidal tendencies. So to sum it all up, manic depression is characterized by mood instability which can really be critical and can hinder a patient from living a normal life.

More often than not, manic disorder sometimes is not really detected. And it is true that even if a person is diagnosed with it, sometimes the chances for them to get a real good treatment are very limited. One reason is because the reason for this disorder is brought about by a lot of factors that all act up together. So diagnoses really needs to done at an early stage of the disorder before it really disengages the patient from a normal environment. It can also be a result of abnormalities in brain functions that might not support them as they process life events making them anxious and stressed. So what can really be the best manic depression treatment?

Manic depression treatment is long-term. It includes both medication and psychosocial treatments. Medications or "mood stabilizers" include lithium treatment that helps control the recurrence of manic and depressive episodes. Another medication is carbamazepine which is an anticonvulsant, to help stabilize a person in the most difficult bipolar episode. Treatments also can include antipsychotic medications such as such as Quetiapine, Olanzapine and Chlorpromazine. Some also use antidepressants, however the effectiveness of antidepressants are yet to be debated on.

Actually manic depression treatment will not cure the disorder. Treatment is done to help the patient manage the bipolar episodes they experience. Psychosocial treatments, which include talk psychotherapy, are used to educate, guide and support a patient and his family. Although a patient can voluntarily admit himself for hospitalization, especially during their manic episodes, these psychosocial interventions are proven more effective to increase a person's mood stability, and can even help them improve their functions. A treatment that combines medication and psychosocial treatment is vital in dealing with the disorder. Even during treatments, bipolar episodes will still occur but with continuous treatment and with close coordination with a doctor, a full-blown episode can be prevented.

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2012年8月28日星期二

Manic Depression is Tearing Apart My Soul

When people discuss bi-polar disorder they refer to a condition known as manic depression. This is associated with unusual and quick switches from a good mood to a sour mood, when someone says "wow, they're bi-polar". It is just another in the many forms of depression. Manic depression is not the same as just being sad or upset for over something in particular. Everyone has occasional highs and lows in their moods. But people with bipolar disorder have extreme mood swings. They can go from feeling very sad, despairing, helpless, worthless, and hopeless (depression) to feeling as if they are on top of the world, hyperactive, creative, and grandiose (mania). This disease is called bipolar disorder because the mood of a person with bipolar disorder can alternate between two completely opposite poles, euphoric happiness and extreme sadness. Manic depression is a much more serious condition. Another stage of depression is the diagnosis for bi-polar disorder.

Millions of people in the United States are diagnosed with Manic Depression every year. In general 17 million people battle depression each year in America. Genetic factors are the main cause of bipolar disorder genetics. Life experiences and psychological processes do not seem to have any aetiological effect. Bipolar disorder is often treated with anti-manic, and sometimes other, psychiatric drugs. Psychotherapy only has a role in helping to gain insight once there has been substantial recovery from acute symptoms. In serious cases in which there is a risk of harm to oneself or others involuntary commitment may be used; these cases generally involve severe manic episodes with dangerous behaviour or depressive episodes with suicidal ideation. There are widespread problems with social stigma, stereotypes and prejudice against individuals with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder.

The symptoms of manic-depressive illness or bipolar disorder are classified according to either manic or depressive episodes. Manic depressive states are diagnosed as:

* Manic episode: A manic episode is diagnosed if elevated mood occurs with 3 or more of the other symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, or for 1 week or longer. If the mood is irritable, 4 additional symptoms must be present.

* Depressive episode: A depressive episode is diagnosed if 5 or more of these symptoms last most of the day, nearly every day, or for a period of 2 weeks or longer.

* Mixed bipolar episode: In some people, however, symptoms of mania and depression can occur together in a mixed bipolar state. A person could have a very sad, hopeless mood, while feeling energized at the same time.

Unfortunately only about1/3 of those will be diagnosed and receive help. When the sufferer refuses aid, there can be no cure. Mental illness is a red stop sign for many Americans, they don't want to deal with it. Being crazy isn't something people want associated with themselves. Sometimes, severe episodes of mania or depression include symptoms of psychosis (or psychotic symptoms). Common psychotic symptoms are hallucinations (hearing, seeing, or otherwise sensing the presence of things not actually there) and delusions (false, strongly held beliefs not influenced by logical reasoning or explained by a person's usual cultural concepts). Psychotic symptoms in bipolar disorder tend to reflect the extreme mood state at the time. For example, delusions of grandiosity, such as believing one is the President or has special powers or wealth, may occur during mania; delusions of guilt or worthlessness, such as believing that one is ruined and penniless or has committed some terrible crime, may appear during depression. People with bipolar disorder who have these symptoms are sometimes incorrectly diagnosed as having schizophrenia, another severe mental illness.

It's very complex when a disease impacts the brain. The deep mood swings of bipolar disorder may last for weeks or months, causing great disturbances in the lives of those affected, and those of family and friends, too. Today, a growing volume of research suggests that bipolar disorder occurs across a spectrum of symptoms, and that many people aren't correctly diagnosed. Left untreated, bipolar disorder generally worsens, and the suicide rate is high among those with bipolar disorder. But with effective treatment, you can live an enjoyable and productive life despite bipolar disorder. It is hard to shake the stigma that comes with the diagnosis. But it's not a sign of being less when this disease is diagnosed. You're not crazy. This is a disease like any other. Unlike ordinary mood swings, bipolar disorder is much more intense and disruptive to everyday functioning, affecting energy, activity levels, judgment, and behavior.

During a manic episode, a person might impulsively quit a job, charge up huge amounts of debt, or feel rested after sleeping two hours. It can be treated. First it has to be identified. A depressive disorder is a syndrome (group of symptoms) that reflects a sad and/or irritable mood exceeding normal sadness or grief. More specifically, the sadness of depression is characterized by a greater intensity and duration and by more severe symptoms and functional disabilities than is normal.

Depressive signs and symptoms are characterized not only by negative thoughts, moods, and behaviors but also by specific changes in bodily functions (for example, crying spells, body aches, low energy or libido, as well as problems with eating, weight, or sleeping). The functional changes of clinical depression are often called neurovegetative signs. This means that the nervous system changes in the brain cause many physical symptoms that result in diminished activity and participation.

All forms of depression are still being studied by doctors and researchers. It has been shown that depression can be brought on by many possibilities. It is known that biological, genetic, and environmental factors have to be taken into consideration. We know that it seems to be caused by a chemical imbalance on the brain. Stress is another major factor in depression. Life is full of stress. Work related issues or the dynamics of a dysfunctional family can create it. Depression knows no bounds. Both the rich and the poor contract it. It doesn't care about race. Color or nationality provide no protection from this illness.

"How do you recognise if you are manic or depressed? When you take medication, what do you expect to happen? Medical descriptions aren't particularly helpful. This chapter describes things to look out for when manic, depressed, and on some drugs.

"All you have to do is take the tablets - why, I take vitamins every morning." When you get that comment, and you will get that comment, what exactly do you tell them to make them understand...

When I am Hypomanic / Manic
Twenty specific symptoms I use to identify if I am becoming manic.

When I am Depressed
Twenty patterns of behaviour I associate with being depressed.

When Official Signs of Depression / Manic Depression
Taken from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition. (DSM-IV).

The drugs are not going to work quite the way the psychiatrist said they would, or the way you expect them to, or the way anybody else expects them to. You are warned.

About Taking Drugs
So you start taking the drugs your doctor prescribed, and everything is fine, yes? No.

When I am on Tegretol
Tegretol is an effective antimanic for me. But it stops working after a while. How I feel when I am taking it and the side effects.

When I am on Epilim (Depakote)
Epilim stabilises me, but I can't function at normal. And I get unpleasant side effects which vary by dosage.

When I am on Prozac
Prozac seems to work well on countering my depression. I'm not getting any side effects either.

When I am on a High Dose of Prozac
Taking 80 mg Prozac works to stabilise my mood swings. With side effects.

When I am on Wellbutrin (Zyban)
Finally, a drug that seems to work the way I want!

When I Found Out I was Manic Depressive
How I felt in the psychiatrist's office immediately after I was diagnosed."

http://www.livingmanicdepressive.com/0_contentsC.html

There are similar symptoms no matter the type of depression. The frequent change in personality, the mood swings that go up and then goes down. Depression can result in insomnia. If you have no hope, feel helpless or desperate, that could be depression. Depression is real when it interferes with your ability to live your life. But people with depression have a light at the end of the tunnel. There is assistance. Doctors can administer drugs or herbal remedies to treat it. There are also medical professionals that can help your illness through 'talk therapy'". Support groups can be of assistance with manic depression. Look for assistance first.

Feel free to browse around at more of these articles. Thanks for taking the time to read.

RockinJay gathers information for a variety of helpful sites.
Learn more about depression and how you can help yourself @ RelieveDepressionToday.com

RockinJay@creativeheadspace.com

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Are You a Victim of Manic Depression

For many years now, most people have been left wondering what manic depression refers to. Well, to answer this question, manic depression is one type of depression that makes people have alternating mood swings. At one time the patient may appear to have extremely "high" (what is referred to manic) moods and before you know it, the patient is experiencing extremely "low" (also referred to depressed) moods. This unusual change of moods greatly interferes with your ability to function properly when undertaking various tasks. Manic depression can affect both men and women and most of the time begins during the late stages of teenage hood and if left untreated it may continue into adulthood. Unlike the other types of depressions, manic depression is usually genetically inherited from the patient's family.

Symptoms of this condition are usually placed into three groups namely, the Manic episode, depressive episode and lastly the Mixed episode. The manic episode is often characterized by elevated mood occurrences accompanied by other symptoms that occur for the better part of the day something that sometimes continues to take place for a whole week. These other symptoms include a decreased need for sleep, an increased need for physical activities, poor judgment, having an inflated self-esteem constant agitation and an increased spending spree.

The depressive episode of manic depression is on the other hand characterized by low levels of mood swings and is usually accompanied by five or more other symptoms. These symptoms tend to last the whole day for a period of about two weeks or sometimes even longer. Some of them include high level of sadness experienced by the patient, a sense of hopelessness, sleeping problems, regular fatigue experiences, anxiety and suicidal thoughts or behavior. On rare occasions, an occurrence of mixed episodes take place and the patient is left experiencing symptoms of both manic episodes and depressive episodes. For example, the patient may be feeling very sad and have a hopeless mood while at the same time feel energized.

Manic depression can further be classified into two main subtypes. The first sub-type known as bipolar I disorder, ensures that the patient suffers from at least one episode of manic condition after an occurrence or non-occurrence of an episode of depression. On the other hand, the second sub-type of this depression is known as bipolar II disorder. This sub-type, makes you be subjected to at least one episode of depression and at least one episode of hypomanic (a briefer manic condition) condition. However, there exists another rare manic depression condition referred to as Cyclothymia. This condition appears to be a mild form of manic depression and also includes mood swings although the manic and depression episodes do not get to be felt as severely as would have been expected.

Appropriate treatment including the use of mood stabilizers, Anti-seizure medication and Anti-depressants is usually highly recommended for persons suffering from manic depression. The reason for this is that, this treatment is often vital for reducing the severity and frequency of manic and depressive episodes. By doing this you are left to enjoy your life without worrying about having any of the episodes.

Wangeci Kinyanjui is an expert on research and reporting on Health Matters for years.To get more information on manic depression visit her site at MANIC DEPRESSION

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What Are the Causes of Manic Depression?

A manic depression is different from a normal depression in the fact that a person not only has periods where he feels very sad, he also has periods of time where he feels himself abundantly well. Although this may sound good, this is not the case as people loose reality of who they are and what they can do. Some people for instance think they are superman or god and will act in the same way.

Their are many possible causes that are the root of this order but the truth is we do not know exactly how a disorder like Manic Depression is caused. However, from what we do know scientific research has shown that there is a genetic link. The incidence of this disorder is higher among patients where their father or mother also had manic depression. This does not explain the whole process why some people do and others will not get this disorder.

The threshold theory says that everybody has a chance on manic depression, but for one person the chance is much higher than for the other. If you will get a certain disorder like manic depression would depend on the amount of stressful life events. So this theory states that it is a combination between sensitivity and stressful life events.

Although this theory has some very strong points, it also has some flaws as it is a very general one not pointing to the very complicated structure of the brain. More research is needed on this topic before we can fully understand what are the causes of manic or bipolar depression.

Manic depressive disorder is a serious illness and many people have to cope with it. Medication does not always have the appropriate effects because the person does not feels himself 'sick. Read more about the causes of manic depression on my website.

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2012年8月27日星期一

How to Spot Manic Depression (Bipolar)

WHAT IS MANIC DEPRESSION?

We all have our ups and downs, but if you're suffering from manic depression, or bipolar disorder, these mood swings are more severe. The extreme highs and lows of bipolar disorder can disrupt daily activities and damage relationships. And although it's treatable, many people don't recognize the warning signs and fail to get the help they need. Since bipolar disorder tends to worsen without treatment, it's important to learn how to spot manic depression. Recognizing the problem is the first step to getting it under control.

SYMPTOMS OF MANIC DEPRESSION

There are several symptoms that are quite specific to manic depression, and recognizing them is how to spot manic depression.

There are four types of mood episodes that can occur in bipolar disorder, each with a unique pattern of symptoms:

Mania
Hypomania
Depression
Mixed Episode

We can now look at the symptoms of each of these episodes in turn. In this way, I hope to help you know how to spot the symptoms of manic depression and to help either yourself or someone close to you get the help that they need.

MANIA: Do you know someone who, for certain brief periods of between a couple of weeks and a couple of months, can seem so full of energy that they can walk a mile a minute or seems to need no sleep at all? Then read on! The mania episode of the cycle is typically that. Whilst this episode may seem fine at first, and to onlookers can even seem funny, it can spiral out of control.

Other common signs include:

Feeling unusually optimistic, high or irritable
Unnatural perceptions of ones own ability and mortality - the person can literally feel like "Superman"
Feeling really energetic although they have had little sleep
Talking so rapidly that no one else can keep up
Racing thoughts and jumping from one subject to the next
Unable to concentrate
Lack of judgment or increased impulsiveness
Delusions and hallucinations in severe cases

HYPOMANIA: This is a milder form of mania. The person will feel overly optimistic and euphoric and enthusiastic but will definitely not include delusions and hallucinations.Most of us may feel that the person is just in a good mood. The thing is, how realistically can one person stay in such a good mood? This is a dangerous time in the manic depressive cycle as, if you don't recognize how to spot manic depression, it can spiral into full blown mania.

DEPRESSION: Unlike normal depression, when it is part of this cycle, the person tends to speak very slowly and seem un naturally tired. The opposite, in fact of Mania. There are also the usual symptoms of depression that the person may exhibit, and these are as follows;

Feeling hopeless, sad, or empty.
Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
Fatigue or loss of energy
Physical and mental sluggishness
Appetite or weight changes
Sleeping too much or too little
Concentration and memory problems
Feelings of self-loathing, shame, or guilt
Thoughts of death or suicide

MIXED EPISODE: A mixed episode of manic depression has symptoms of both mania and depression. Common signs of this stage include agitation, irritability, insomnia, appetite changes, loss of contact with reality and suicidal thoughts. This is a risky combination and makes it a particularly high risk of suicide.

I know that this is a worrying illness and that you will be feeling very anxious, but there is help and hope, and I wish you luck in your journey.

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What Is Manic Depression And How To Recognise It

Manic depression is characterised as extreme mood changes which can happen gradually or have rapid onset, a person suffering with manic depression can therefore be fine one minute and feeling extremely low the next or they could have an ok day and feel good about themselves and then wake the next morning with a completely different outlook on life, feeling very gloomy and wondering "what's the point in getting up today". This at first glance may not sound like a serious disorder but it is a recognised depressive disorder and if left untreated can quite easily lead to something much more serious including life threatening issues.

As with most depressive disorders the exact cause of manic depression is not known but extensive research points to it being a chemical imbalance in the brain.

The symptoms and severity of manic depression can vary widely from person to person and is therefore a difficult condition to correctly diagnose. It is very important to see a doctor for diagnosis if you think you or someone you know may be suffering from manic depression, it is not a condition which can be self diagnosed or self treated.

Listed here are some symptoms which may be common to a majority of sufferers, not everyone will have all of these symptoms of course, some people will only get one or two of the symptoms listed but may have different symptoms too which are unique to their condition.

Unusual tiredness - no energy, lethargy not caused by lack of sleep.
Hopelessness - feeling there is no point in doing even simple tasks
Pessimistic - always seeing the worst of any situations
Inability to sleep - insomnia with no recognisable reasons, i.e. a recent bereavement or loss
Anxiety - feeling anxious with no apparent reason
Emotionless - lack of any kind of feelings
Weight loss - caused by lack of appetite or weight gain due to comfort eating

Symptoms of manic depression can begin to show in teenage years, is more common between the age of eighteen and twenty four and tends to develop less in the over thirties but can occur at any age in both men and women. Symptoms lasting two weeks or more should be treated as serious and medical help sought.

Manic depression is treatable, usually requiring a person to be prescribed an anti-depressant thought to be most suited to their individual symptoms and condition. A sufferer will also be offered psychological intervention in the form of talking therapy if their doctor believes they will benefit from this. If the symptoms are not too severe and don't interfere with day to day activities in a big way then therapy may be all that is needed and will be tried before medication. In all cases the advice of the doctor should be taken seriously to ensure a more serious disorder doesn't develop.

c Andrew Tudor Jones

Andrew Tudor Jones is the owner of http://www.anxietydepressionselfhelp.com, a website dedicated to anyone who suffers from anxiety and depression.The website offers valuable information on these conditions as well as 2 e-books which can be downloaded for free and a Blog, updated on a regular basis with relevant information. You can connect with Andrew on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/selfhelpforanxietyanddepression.

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Manic Depression Symptoms

So, go through the MAJOR depression symptoms first which always makes one confused:

1. Feeling sad like hell or in the blues

2. Losing interest completely in things the person used to enjoy, including sex

3. Feeling of being worthless, hopeless, or guilty for nothing (as a burden on others and on this earth).

4. Lack of sleep or sometimes no sleep at all

5. Drastic weight loss or losing appetite

6. Loss of energy or feeling tired

7. Restlessness

8. Loss of concentration or losing the power to make decisions

9. Suicidal thoughts

Now come the MANIC depression symptoms which you want to know:

1. Energy level highly raised, more than normal

2. Not feeling the need to sleep because of high energy level

3. A wavering mind due to too many racing thoughts in mind and mood swings at peak

4. Easily distracted mind or loss of concentration

5. Getting more talkative than usual or feeling pressurized to talk more and more from within

6. Self-confidence touching great heights than usual

7. Risk-taking factor gets increased rapidly or loss of fear in mind

8. Loss of the determination to complete the tasks in hand

9. Confused mind

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Among all types of depression manic depressive disorder or bipolar disorder is by far the least common. Nonetheless, according to recent studies and depending on the interpretation of the results of these studies about 1.3 to 6.4 percent of the population can be classified as having manic depressive disorder. This type of depression is characterized by mood swings between severe emotional lows (the depressive state) and highs (the manic state. In general manic depressive disorder is categorized as either Bipolar Type I or Bipolar Type II - the former defined by mania in its extreme form, the latter characterized by a less extreme expression of mania called hypo-mania.

The manic phases of manic depressive disorder are defined by a dramatic increase in energy leading to over-activity and over-confidence. The patient is also commonly over-talkative with a high speech-rate. The attention span is drastically lowered as is the ability to think rationally and to behave properly in social settings. This in turn leads to the affected person devising and pursuing unrealistic and oftentimes dangerous ideas, as well as to the unintentional creation of embarrassing situations in public. If left untreated mania can develop into a psychotic state. The hypo-mania characteristic for Bipolar Type II is less destructive than full-blown mania insofar as the symptoms are much weaker and usually last for a shorter period of time. The hypo-manic state can even lead to creative outbursts and, at least temporarily, to unusually high innovative problem solving skills.

The depressive phases of manic depressive disorder are in no way different than the depressive phases of other kinds of depression. The patient experiences prolonged phases of sadness, often without a cause, and a loss of energy leading to lethargy. He is indifferent and pessimistic; feels guilty and worthless; shows a loss of appetite and a change in sleep patterns - with insomnia being very common; is indecisive and unable to concentrate; experiences anxiety, irritability and anger. Furthermore, the patient may have recurring thoughts of death or suicide.

Sometimes manic depressive disorder patients experience a mixed state where certain aspects of the manic and the depressive state occur next to each other. For example it is possible that a patient experiences insomnia, paranoia, anxiety and suicidal thoughts as well as agitation, aggressiveness and hyperactivity. Mixed episodes of manic depressive disorder often are the most destructive mental state leading to self-mutilation, suicidal activities and substance abuse if untreated.

While some sufferers of manic depressive disorder experience only a few manic and depressive episodes during their lifetime the opposite is true for many other cases of this type of depression. Rapid cycling of mania and depression is hard to control and has a worse prognosis than the other types of manic depressive disorder. Interestingly the use of antidepressants can have a negative effect on patients experiencing rapid cycles or can even induce the rapid cycling state.

Concluding it has to be said that manic depressive disorder is a serious condition and arguably the worst of all types of depression. Probably to a large extent genetically pre-determined it cannot be healed. However, the condition can be alleviated and controlled by proper medicinal management and anyone suffering from manic depressive disorder is well-advised to seek medical help as soon as possible.

To learn more on bipolar disorder and how manic depressive disorder is treated go to http://www.beatdepression.org, your depression resource.

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Manic Depression

2012年8月31日星期五

Bipolar Manic Depression - Understanding and Educating Yourself About This Condition

The Highs and Lows Of Manic Depression

Manic Depression Symptoms - The Highs and Lows

2012年8月30日星期四

Understanding Symptoms of Manic Depression In Children

Major Depression and Manic Depression - Any Difference?

A Typical Manic Depression Symptom is the Need For Speed

2012年8月29日星期三

How To Identify And Treat Manic Depression Symptoms

Manic Depression Symptoms and Natural Treatment

Manic Depression Symptoms

Manic Depression Treatment - How Can it Be Treated

2012年8月28日星期二

Manic Depression is Tearing Apart My Soul

Are You a Victim of Manic Depression

What Are the Causes of Manic Depression?

2012年8月27日星期一

How to Spot Manic Depression (Bipolar)

What Is Manic Depression And How To Recognise It

Manic Depression Symptoms

2012年8月26日星期日

Manic Depression Cure

Manic Depressive Treatment Options

Manic Depression - Introduction

Manic Depressive Disorder Can Control a Number of Lives If It Is Allowed Too

2012年8月25日星期六

Characteristics of Manic Depression

How To Live Better With Manic Depression Using A Support System

The Importance of Identifying Manic Depression Symptoms

2012年8月24日星期五

Manic Depressive Illness

What Is Manic Depressive Disorder?

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2012年8月28日 星期二

2012年8月27日 星期一

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2012年8月25日 星期六

2012年8月24日 星期五

2012年8月31日星期五

2012年8月30日星期四

2012年8月29日星期三

2012年8月28日星期二

2012年8月27日星期一

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