Test For Manic Depression
It is not unusual for individuals with bipolar depression (also called manic depression) to be misdiagnosed unless seen by a professional.
The condition is often fully realized when the affected person goes from happy to sad in short periods of time. Although many of us can experience occasions where dramatic mood swings can occur, this is often caused by short term stress at work or pre-menstrual tension for example. Doctors actually have diagnosed regular, persistent mood swings as a common symptom of depression.
When a suspected depressed individual changes to someone who will become angry or annoyed at minor events and become very irritable then the chances are they are suffering with manic depression. The so-called manic in manic depression is described as to be the times when a person suffering from bipolar depression may experience periods of heightened energy. Irritability and argumentative behavior is never far away from this condition though and may even become aggressive. To make matters worse, the manic depressive patient when in this elevated mood may even carry on with sudden periods of elation for almost a week.
When it comes to the low or down periods, they can actually cause someone who is suffering from manic depression to experience very similar symptoms to those who are suffering from actual depression. The feeling of being of no use to anyone will over a period of time affect the persons mind and cause further problems for the therapist to overcome. Various symptoms may be displayed such as showing guilt, extreme sadness, anxiety attacks, feeling of not belonging, extreme pessimism and obvious loss for pleasure. According to therapists, an individual who is depressed consistently for more than a week can officially be diagnosed as someone who is suffering from manic depression.
Although the seriousness of this condition cannot be underestimated, surprisingly, it is possible to be treated. Fortunately it is possible, providing the routines and instructions issued by the doctor are followed, for the victim to lead a fairly normal life and overcome the condition. Individuals who are suffering from manic depression should always be able to see their therapists on a regular basis so as to be able to release their pent up emotions to some one who can interpret and understand what they’re going through.
While relief may come from drugs and other natural medicines it is the behavioral therapist that will really make a difference in the long term. Contrary to some beliefs, when it comes to psychiatric treatments, psychiatrists, preferably cognitive behavior therapists are still the best ones to consult for manic depression. Seriously considered by many authorities as the main solution to manic depression, cognitive behavioral therapists will continue to be the front line when dealing with this condition.