Manic Depression: A Mood Disorder

Manic depression, or bi-polar mood disorder, is usually described as a disorder in which a person alternates between two states: a manic or high, and a depressive or low. Moving from one state to the other is called a “mood swing” and, depending on the type and severity of the disorder, can occur at different times and rates. Manic depression affects the behavior and personality of a person. People with this disorder exhibit several common symptoms, depending on whether they are in a manic state or a depressive state.

When in a manic mode, patients describe feelings of intense pleasure and/or happiness. They are often highly motivated and give accounts of free flowing ideas that seem to come from nowhere and are highly unregulated. They may talk incessantly and feel that they have a difficult time getting their point across to other individuals. In this state, they may sleep and eat little. Some people describe feelings that can only be described as extreme mania. Symptoms may include hostile behavior, a tendency to destroy property, and experiencing delusions or hallucinations.

The other side of manic depression is the low, depressed end. In this state, a person may exhibit a feeling of hopelessness, a loss of interest in work or family, anxiety, pessimism, a loss of interest in sex, slothfulness, and a desire to sleep nearly all day. Many people also experience weight loss, thoughts of suicide, physical complaints (headaches, stomachaches, sensitivity to light), and excessive use of alcohol and/or drugs.

Manic depression can be treated in a few ways. Medication has proven to be effective in battling manic depression, as well as psychotherapy. Many doctors believe that a combination of the two is the best approach, providing a prescription and offering one-on-one and group therapy to those in need.