What Are the Manic Depression Symptoms You Should Look Out For

Manic depression symptoms, now better known as bipolar disorder symptoms, refers to signs a person has because of this illness. Manic depression, also known as bipolar disorder is a psychological disorder that affects one's mood.

Basically it results in mood swings but they are no ordinary ones that most of us would face as part of the ups and downs of everyday life. Such mood swings can cause one to experience different degrees of mood states ranging from extreme highs to extreme lows. They are not character flaws but are the result of biological changes in the brain.

Estimated to affect approximately 1% of the adult population, this disorder comes in second after depression as one of the most common disorders. Both men and women are equally susceptible to this illness. In serious cases, sufferers may even resort to committing suicide to reduce their sufferings.

At present, there is no cure for bipolar disorder. However, it is a medical condition that can be treated and managed with medication. As such, it is important for all to recognize manic depression symptoms. That will allow proper treatment to be given so that relapses are minimized. While it is often agreed that bipolar disorder causes the patients' mood to alternate between mania and depression, it is important to recognize the signs for each.

For mania, the more common signs include reduced sleep, being more sociable, engaging in more activities and increased irritability. A milder form of mania known as hypomania can cause people to have new ideas, plans and interest, engage in more risky activities and having increased sex drive.

On the end of the spectrum, common symptoms of depression include losing interest and motivation in activities and people, having persistent worry or anxiety and having sleep disruption. Sometimes, sufferers may even have mixed symptoms as they went through experiences of mania and depression simultaneously.

The thing about manic depression symptoms is that once you are able to identify the warning signs early, you have a better chance of coming up with the appropriate strategies to reduce and even prevent a relapse.