Symptons of Manic-Depression

Manic Depression is a disorder where a person experiences extreme mood swings. The key word here is extreme. The moods can be overly dramatic. When a person with this disorder feels happy they will be elated or euphoric. When they feel angry they are furious. They will be rageful. These two types of moods are called mania. They are over-exaggerated feelings. The opposite of these emotions is extreme depression. A person will feel so low that they will become suicidal.

What Causes Manic-Depression

It is still not known what causes this disorder. There have been studies that have identified somethings that might cause the disorder. Researchers seem to think that people with this disorder might have too much or too little of certain chemicals in the brain. These chemicals are responsible for sending messages throughout the brain. When there is an imbalance, the brain does not function properly. This can cause the extreme mood swings that a person with this disorder goes through. Researchers also think that a person who has gone through some type of traumatic experience can develop this disorder. Studies have shown that it also runs in families, so it seems to be inherited.

Common Symptoms of Manic-Depression

(Mania)

Talking Fast
Racing Thoughts
Lack of Concentration
Excessive spending or gambling
Doesn't need to sleep as much
Lots of energy
Rageful

Depression

Feelings of worthlessness
Extreme Sadness
Hopelessness
Fatigue
Suicidal

How is Manic-Depression Treated

A psychiatrist is the best type of doctor to see for this disorder. The psychiatrist will prescribe the patient with a mood-stabilizing drug. Sometimes the doctor will also prescribe an anti-depressant to go with the mood-stabilizer. There are many drugs that the doctor can choose from. Two very common mood-stabilizing drugs are Depakote and Lithium. These drugs help the patient with the mood swings. They are not a cure, only a help. Some common anti-depressants that the doctor might prescribe are Effexor, Abilify, or Seroquel.

Living With Manic-Depression

It is very important that a person who has been diagnosed with manic-depression take their medication as prescribed. They should also keep all of their doctor's appointments. This is so very important because the doctor keeps a close eye on how the treatment is going. If the medication is not working, the patient can become even worse. Once the doctor has gotten the patient on a regulated dosage of medication, most patients can lead a normal life. Patience is very important. It can take time to figure out which medications are going to be best for the patient. Some other things that might help a person with this disorder would be attending support groups and also seeing a psychologist.