Manic-depressive disorder

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Manic-Depressive Disorder also known as Bipolar Disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Manic-depressive disorder is divided into several subtypes, each with its own pattern of symptoms. These include Bipolar I Disorder, Bipolar II Disorder, and Cyclothymic Disorder. Symptoms of manic-depressive disorder can vary widely in pattern, severity, and frequency.

Mania[edit | edit source]

During a manic episode, individuals may feel euphoric, have lots of energy, have increased activity levels, feel jumpy or wired, have trouble sleeping, become more active than usual, talk really fast about a lot of different things, be agitated, irritable, or touchy, have racing thoughts, take on big projects, and behave recklessly.

Depression[edit | edit source]

During a depressive episode, individuals may feel sad, down, empty, or hopeless, have very little energy, have decreased activity levels, have trouble sleeping or sleep too much, feel like they can't enjoy anything, feel worried and empty, have trouble concentrating, forget things a lot, eat too much or too little, feel tired or slowed down, think about death or suicide.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of manic-depressive disorder isn't known, but several factors may be involved, such as biological differences, neurotransmitter imbalance, inherited traits, and environment.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment is usually lifelong and often involves a combination of medications and psychotherapy. Medications used to treat manic-depressive disorder include mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety drugs. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, can be an effective treatment for manic-depressive disorder.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD