Manic Depression or Bipolar Affective disorder as it is sometimes known is a medical term used by psychiatrists to describe a form of mental distress which affects someone’s mood and behaviour.
The word ‘bipolar’ means two opposite poles. The two opposite poles of bipolar affective disorder are depression and mania.
People affected by it can experience mood swings – periods of feeling terribly low and depressed, as well as periods of feeling high and elated. These ups and downs are not like general ups and downs they are more extreme and can be distressing and frightening. It can affect how people behave, how people manage their lives and how they get on with other people. During manic episodes, people tend to be hyperactive, uninhibited, reckless, full of grandiose schemes and scattered ideas. At other times, they may go through long periods of being very depressed - although not everyone experiences both these extremes.
"Bipolar Disorder or Manic Depression affects around 1 in every 100 adults at some point in their lives"
There are a few different types of Bipolar Affective Disorder these are:-
· Bipolar 1 at least one high, or manic episode which has lasted for longer than one week. Some people will have only manic episodes, although most will also have depressive ones, whilst others will have more depressive episodes than manic ones. Untreated manic episodes generally last three to six months, depressive episodes tend to last longer – six to 12 months without treatment.
· Bipolar 2 There has been more than one episode of major depression, but only mild manic episodes – these are referred to as ‘hypomania’.
· Rapid Cycling There are more than 4 moods swings in a 12 month period. This affects around 1 in 10 people with Bipolar Disorder and can happen with both types 1 and 2.
· Cyclothymia The mood swings are not as severe as those in full bipolar disorder, but they may continue longer. This can sometimes develop into full bipolar disorder.
If you are going through a low period when you feel depressed some of the symptoms of depression can include feeling unhappy most of the time, losing interest in things, being unable to enjoy things, feeling restless and agitated, losing self confidence, having difficulty in concentrating and finding it difficult to make even simple decisions. (For more information on Depression see our Depression Information Pack).
If you are going through a high period some of the symptoms of mania may include feeling very happy, you may be irritated with other people for not sharing your optimism, unable or unwilling to sleep, full of energy, very active and moving quickly and full of ideas and plans of grandiose and unrealistic.
There are various sources of support available for people suffering from manic depression. Speak with your family doctor, family and friends to work out what best suits you. Options available can include medical treatment, counseling and therapy and self help.
Below are a few websites that can provide you with further information, help and support with Bi-Polar/Manic Depression-
http://www.bipolarscotland.org.uk/
http://www.rethink.org/about_mental_illness/mental_illnesses_and_disorders/bipolar_disorder/index.html
http://www.mind.org.uk/help/diagnoses_and_conditions/bipolar_disorder_manic_depression
For further details of useful websites to view in regard to Bi~Polar/Manic Depression and to see what leaflets and books you can access at our Information Point within DAMH, you can click on the Bi-Polar/Manic Depression word document at the top right of this page or alternatively you can click on the contact us at the top of the page to send us a message or request an Information Pack on one of the subjects listed.
Please note:
The information contained within this information pack if for general information only and is not intended to replace or substitute the advice or recommendations given by a medical professional. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information provided, Dundee Association for Mental Health (DAMH) cannot recommend any of the services or resources included or accept liability for the quality of service they provide.