Manic depressive illness
Manic Depressive Illness
Manic depressive illness, also called bipolar disorder, is a mental disorder characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, behavior, and functioning. Bipolar disorder affects an estimated 2.6% of the US population, or around 5.7 million adults, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. It is a serious condition, but is highly treatable with proper medical care and lifestyle changes.
Symptoms of Manic Depressive Illness
The hallmark symptoms of bipolar disorder are significant changes in mood, energy, and functioning. Major symptoms of bipolar disorder include:
- Manic episodes, or periods of abnormally elevated mood, energy, and activity levels
- Depressive episodes, or periods of abnormally low mood, energy, and activity levels
- Mixed episodes, during which some symptoms of bipolar disorder are present but none are as dominant as during manic or depressive episodes
- Significant changes in thinking, behavior, and functioning
- Hallucinations and/or delusions
Other common symptoms include trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, and reckless behavior. Symptoms of bipolar disorder can range from mild to severe, and can vary in frequency and duration.
Types of Manic Depressive Illness
Bipolar disorder is often divided into different subtypes, based on the type and severity of symptoms. The three most common types are:
- Bipolar I Disorder: This type is characterized by at least one manic episode, as well as episodes of depression.
- Bipolar II Disorder: This type is characterized by at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode, but no manic episodes.
- Cyclothymic Disorder: This type is characterized by at least two years of multiple hypomanic episodes and multiple depressive episodes.
Risk Factors for Manic Depressive Illness
The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, but several risk factors have been identified. These include a genetic predisposition, certain environmental triggers, certain medical conditions, and drug and alcohol use.
Bipolar disorder is also more common in people with a family history of the disorder, and in people who have experienced traumatic or stressful events in their lives. It is important to note that having any one of these risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will become bipolar – it is simply an increased risk.
Treatment for Manic Depressive Illness
Bipolar disorder is highly treatable, and the most effective treatments focus on managing symptoms, preventing relapse, and maintaining stability. Common treatments include psychotherapy, medications, lifestyle changes, and support groups. It is important to speak with a doctor or mental health professional to develop an individualized treatment plan.