For those who carry the label of bipolar, manic depression is a fact of life. The two terms “bipolar disorder” and “manic depression” can be used virtually interchangeably. They both refer to the same condition–one in which the sufferer experiences wildly extreme feeling on both sides of the emotional spectrum.
Depression for the Bipolar
Manic Depression involves, as noted, two extremes. One is depression. During some periods of life for the bipolar, manic depression will mean a period of extreme sadness and hopelessness. The depressive aspect of the illness brings with it all of the unfortunate symptom logy generally associated with clinical depression. One may lose their interest in previously enjoyed activities. They might find themselves increasing restless, nervous or agitated. Disruptions is sleeping and eating habits are common. These and many other potential symptoms are combined with a truly profound sense of sadness. This is one of the “poles” for the bipolar; manic depression definitely takes its sufferers deep levels of despair.
Mania for the Bipolar
Manic depression has a flipside, and that is euphoria, or mania. During these times, the sufferer may experience an indescribable sense of well-being and happiness. Joy will overtake the individual and a sense of near-omnipotence and certainty in all things will develop. As nice as that may sound in the abstract, it is a horrible situation for disease sufferers. The euphoria pulls them to emotional heights that are out of touch with reality. Bipolars tend to make outlandish assumptions and to act with a sense of impunity. They lack perspective and can become so drawn into their perfect manic fantasy that they lose all touch with reality.
Living with Bipolarity
Those suffering from manic depression can find maintaining a normal life to be very difficult. The severe depressive periods of their lives make them disproportionately likely to commit suicide and the poor decision making present during times of euphoria can produce numerous eventual challenges.
Bipolar disorders have existed for centuries. Over that time, treatment methods for the disorder have improved considerably. Not only have we long dispensed with the bizarre notions of the Middle Ages, when manic depression was seen as a sign of demonic possession, we have also largely given up on other ineffective treatments. Modern medical professionals generally rely upon a combination of reasonably effective pharmaceutical products, therapy and occasional use of ECT treatments to fight manic depression.
The results of treatment are not uniform. All evidence tells us, however, that those with the disease who avail themselves to professional treatment are better able to function with the disease and to control its symptom logy. Thousands are able to enjoy their lives within normal, reasonable emotional boundaries thanks to quality treatment options for the bipolar. Manic depression is a serious condition, but its intense symptoms can be mitigated.
Here more news and more info around the web:
Kim Novak says she’s bipolar regrets leaving Hollywood Los Angeles Times
The National Enquirer. Kim Novak says she’s bipolar regrets leaving Hollywood. Los Angeles Times. Actress Kim Novak told an audience at the TCM Classic Film Festival Friday that she has bipolar disorder and sometimes regrets her decision to leave Hollywood in the late 1960s at the height of her fame. The star of such films as Vertigo Pal Joey Novak has bipolar disorderHollywood.com. KIM NOVAK CONFESSES I’M BIPOLAR The National Enquirer. Vertigo star Kim Novak reveals bipolar disorderDigital Spy. LAist Sky Valley Chronicle. all 15 news articles.…
American Power Kim Novak Says She’s Bipolar Branded as American Power Kim Novak Says She’s Bipolar Branded as
And she’s in the news at Los Angeles Times Kim Novak says she’s bipolar regrets leaving Hollywood. And get this on her conflicts with establishment Hollywood Kim Novak. She was branded as difficult Novak said in part.…