What It Means to Be Bipolar - Manic Depression Explained

For those who bear the label of bipolar, manic depression is a fact of life. The two terms "bipolar disorder" and "manic depression" can be used virtually interchangeably. They both refer to the same condition - one in which the sufferer experiences wildly extreme concern on both sides of the emotional spectrum.

Depression for the Bipolar

Manic Depression involves as noted, two extremes. One is depression. During some periods of life for the bipolar, manic depression will mean a period of extreme sadness and hopelessness. The depressive aspect of the illness brings with it all of the unfortunate symptom logy associated with clinical depression. One may lose their interest in previously enjoyed activities. They might find themselves in a face of increasing restless, nervous or agitated.

Disruptions are sleeping, and eating habits are common. These and many other potential symptoms combined with a truly profound sense of sadness. This is one of the "poles" for the bipolar; manic bipolar depression takes its sufferers deep levels of despair.

Mania for the Bipolar

Manic depression has a flip side, and that is euphoria, or mania. During these times, the sufferer may experience an indescribable sense of well-being and happiness. Joy will surpass the individual and a sense of near-omnipotence and confidence in all things will develop. As nice as that may sound in the abstract, it is a horrible situation for disease sufferers. The euphoria pulls them to emotional heights that are out of touch with reality. Bipolar people tend to make weird assumptions and to act with a sense of impunity. They lack perspective and can become so induced into their perfect manic fantasy that they lose all touch with reality.

Living with Bipolarity

Those suffering from manic depression can find maintaining a normal life to be extremely difficult. The severe depressive periods of their lives make them disproportionately, and likely to commit suicide and the poor decision making present during times of euphoria can produce numerous eventual challenges.

Bipolar disorders have existed for centuries. Over that time, treatment methods for the disorder have improved considerably. Not only have we long dispensed with the bizarre notions of the Middle Ages, when manic depression a sign of demonic possession, we have also largely given up on other ineffective treatments. Modern medical professionals are primarily relying upon a combination of reasonably effective pharmaceutical products, therapy and occasional use of ECT treatments to fight manic depression.

The results of treatment are not uniform. All evidence tells us, however, that those with the disease who avail themselves to professional treatment are better able to function with the disease and to control its symptom logy.

Thousands are able to enjoy their lives within normal, reasonable emotional boundaries thanks to quality treatment options for the bipolar.

Manic depression is a serious condition, but its intense symptoms can be mitigated.