Manic Depression

Manic depression is commonly referred to as bipolar disorder and is characterized by a person reporting various cycles of hyper or mania activity coupled with bouts of depression.  The disorder is characterized by severe mood swings, some of which may be rapid and frequent.  The mood shifts result in much more than the  typical “ups” and “downs” often experienced throughout the course of life.  With manic depression, the mood swings are so severe and to such extremes that during a manic phase or high, the individual may engage in risky behaviors such as unprotected sex, gambling or impulsive behavior.  During periods of depression, the oppression may become so severe that the person is consumed with thoughts of suicide.  As the mood swings are so extreme, manic depression is a serious illness that requires medical treatment.

Causes of Manic Depression

There is no known cause associated with manic depression, however, genetic research has shown that it runs manic depressionin families.  Though genetic research and studies are ongoing, it appears that a combination of factors may attribute to the disorder.  Experts believe it may be a combination of both genetics and environment.  As there is no exact cause of manic depression, there is no way to prevent it.  Studies show that the majority of manic depression cases occur when a person is in their late teens or early adult years.  The condition is also more prevalent in females than males.  According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), more than half of all manic depression cases began before a person turned 25-years-old.

Another study by the National Institute of Mental Health shows that there may be differences in brain chemistry between those who suffer from manic depression and those who report having stabilized moods.  Early studies that use brain imaging technology, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging or FMRI has lead researchers to believe that manic depression is related to a chemical imbalance in the brain.  These studies are ongoing and more research must be conducted in order to make a factual determination regarding bipolar disorder or manic depression causes.

Manic Depression Symptoms

Usually someone doesn’t know they have manic depression until they begin experiencing symptoms.  Symptoms range between those associated with periods of mania with those of severe depression.  Here is a list of some of the symptoms associated with manic depression.

Manic Depression Symptoms Associated with the Manic Stage

  • Impulsive Behaviors (Spending, eating and drinking)
  • Insomnia or feeling energetic after little sleep
  • Feeling Invincible
  • Reckless Behavior and Poor Decision Making
  • Moody or Easily Angered
  • Risky Sexual Behaviors/Promiscuity
  • Rampant spending
  • Hyperactivity
  • Fast speech or hyper talking
  • Fast or racing thoughts
  • Drugs and/or Alcohol Abuse

Manic Depression Symptoms Associated with the Depression Stage

  • Eating disorders (such as overeating or loss of appetite)
  • Loss of interest in activities that normally cause pleasure
  • Lack of social activity
  • Low Self Esteem
  • Thoughts of Suicide or Hopelessness
  • Trouble concentrating or focusing
  • Indecisiveness/Lack of Decision Making
  • Overwhelming Sadness
  • Low Energy
  • Lethargy
  • Overwhelming Feelings of Shame or Guilt
  • Sleep Disorders (Insomnia or Oversleeping)
  • Drug or Alcohol Abuse

Manic Depression Diagnosis

Often a diagnosis is sought after a person begins to experience these symptoms either singly or combined.  A mixed state occurs when a person suffers from both manic and depressive symptoms at the same time.  Anyone experiencing symptoms associated with manic depression should be seen by a doctor for an examination.

Though there is no test that will determine whether or not someone has manic depression, a determination is made by looking at the symptoms, their severity and the time frame in which they occurred and ruling out underlying causes.  Your health care provider may check for any thyroid issues to rule out a thyroid problem.  Your health care provider will question you regarding your family history, whether or not anyone in your immediate family or other relatives have been diagnosed with manic depressive as well as how long you’ve experienced symptoms.

If a thorough examination rules out all underlying conditions and if the mood swings continue, there is high probability you would be diagnosed with manic depression or bipolar disorder.  It’s important to realize that most people will seek help when dealing with a depressive state rather than a manic episode.  If someone is diagnosed with manic depression they will most likely be treated with medication or mood stabilizing drugs, but there is a possibility that therapy may consist of additional treatments.

Manic Depression Treatment

At this point, a treatment for manic depression that is 100% guaranteed is unknown.  Even with the most thorough treatment and prescription drugs there is no guarantee that manic disorder cycles will cease.  For many, however, prescription drugs are effective.  There are several types of drugs prescribed to treat those diagnosed with manic depression.  These include mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants and sometimes antiseizure medications.

Most health care professionals will begin treatment for manic depression with mood stabilizing drugs such as Lithium, Carbamaezepine, Valproate and Lamotrigine.    Antipsychotics and Antidepressants are often used to treat specific symptoms that may still be present after beginning treatment with mood stabilizers.

Other treatment methods may include electroconvulsive therapy, cognitive therapy, transcranial magnetic stimulation and more.  It’s important to understand that manic depression is a serious illness that may lead to suicide. It should not be left untreated.

If you or someone you care about may have manic depression, do not delay; seek help immediately.