Manic Depressive Illness
Manic depressive illness also known as bipolar disorder is a condition
in which a person's mood swings from a low point of depression to a
high point of mania: the swings may be for several months, a few days,
or for very short periods of time, in what is called "rapid cycling."
To a much lesser degree mood swings are a part of life for most people.
People with a medium degree of bipolar disorder are sometimes greatly
successful in their work, particularly in artistic or creative
activities, because of their increased energy and optimism in their
high moods. But many with this disorder can be very unstable, always
making changes, from one thing to another, changing jobs, spouses,
homes and friends.
Treatment for bipolar disorder should be from a psycho-therapist and
usually consists of counseling and drugs. Unfortunately, when
depressed, they often receive treatment for depression and when elated,
for manic disorder. But what the patient really needs is a mood
stabilizer drug, like Lamictal. Otherwise, a pure anti-depressant can
catapult the patient into a manic phase; and the anti-manic drug can
throw the patient into a depression. The doctor tries to get the
patient on a level mood position and usually by drugs. There are
numerous drug options and some people must stay on drugs for an
indefinite period or even for life.
Regardless of the type of treatment, this condition will not only
receive help by living a healthy lifestyle, of proper nutrition and
exercise, but it will benefit almost any health or medical disorder.
For more information on a healthy lifestyle, view my articles on
"Keys to the Century Mark", and "Alzheimer's", by clicking on the link
below.
