Cause Of Manic Depression
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The cause of manic depression or bipolar disorder is not known but it is suggested that there is a genetic link of the disorder within families. Unusual amounts of stress and anxiety can make the symptoms more pronounced causing many doctors to prescribe medication for bipolar sufferers. The onset of this disease usually occurs in the twenties for most people, but some experience symptoms in their childhood and teen years. Bipolar disorder displays exaggerated moods swings from a euphoric feeling to a depressed state.
The moods swings are drastic which makes this the most difficult type of depression to deal with for those who live with the sufferer. The euphoric or mania mood that is characteristic of those with bipolar can be viewed as reckless, rebellious behavior by family members. Loud, boisterous attitudes and unchecked activities are common in this particular mood and medications for depression are given for the opposite mood swing. Even though medical professionals do not know the exact cause of manic depression the mood swings can be calculated to occur if a patient has more than three episodes from the onset.
After three episodes of bipolar mood swings, most doctors who specialize in the cure will officially diagnose a patient as manic depressive. Medication for these types of episodes are prescribed at the time of diagnosis. Ongoing counseling therapy is also strongly suggested by medical professionals because many who experience extreme sadness after a manic episode are plagued with suicidal thoughts. Since the cause of manic depression is not clear, medication can only be given to alleviate symptoms and help a patient deal with fluctuating mood swings.
Doctors believe that the cause may in part, stem from changes in the brain chemistry. The exaggerated moods swings among severe bipolar patients lead scientists to believe that brain chemicals fluctuate dramatically stimulating the cause of manic depression. In order to regulate the brain chemistry, doctors prescribe not only a medication for depression, but also other medications that can level out the manic states as well. Both moods can be harmful to a manic patient because the manic mood can result in risky behavior. These periods of manic mood swings can last for weeks or months and often allow the patient to do productive work with high energy and an up mood swing.
At some point, the depressed mood is triggered but the reason is not known, it makes diagnosis difficult to pinpoint when a let down will occur in the patient. The depressive mood swing can drop so fast that the patient may reach a place where he or she cannot function normally. A medication for depression is given to alleviate these darker moods that plague bipolar sufferers. Unlike other forms of depression, manic depression affects the number of men and women equally and the treatment is typically the same. If a person is diagnosed, it is considered to be a lifelong illness and will require continued maintenance even when symptoms are alleviated.
A combined approach of therapy, lifestyle changes are recommended for those who display these symptoms. Bipolar illness can be a particularly painful illness to have and can cause severe emotional pain to the sufferer. Many times there are spiritual issues that can be dealt with that can help relieve some of the stress and anxiety that are known to exacerbate the symptoms. Many times those who have been diagnosed with manic depression disorder continue to live a relatively normal life and may go months without a mood swing.
The ability to choose and make decisions is available to most that are diagnosed with the disorder and it is important that any personal issues be resolved. Many times there will be a lessening of mood swings and symptoms when personal issues such as anger, anxiety, stress and guilt if dealt with from a biblical perspective. Painful emotions can be dealt with as well from a Scriptural viewpoint which can possibly lessen the need for a medication for depression. There are many complicated factors involved in helping anyone with this type of disorder, but since the reason is not known, it is a wise decision to always attempt to alleviate personal issues that can trigger symptoms.
There are other common sense things that can be done by anyone who experiences symptoms in order to lessen mood swings and live a normal life other than just depend on a medication for depression. It is important that a regular schedule be established every day as well as a low stress environment. A regimen of health eating and exercise are also important in alleviating stress factors that can trigger manic episodes. It is always risky behavior for anyone who suffers with bipolar disorder to use drugs or alcohol. Even though the cause of manic depression is still not known, a less stressed life with good sleep habits and healthy emotional attitudes are important in overcoming the symptoms of manic depression.
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