Manic Depression - Bipolar Disorder as a Mental Illness - Essay Example

Manic Depression Manic depression or bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by extreme mood swings in the behavior of the patient. It causes "unusual shifts in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function" (NIMH, 2008). Anyone experiences ups and downs when dealing with stressful situations in life, but the symptons on a manic depressive person are severe. NIMH states that this mental disorder "can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide" (2008). The good news about manic depression is that it can be treated successfully, and people affected with the bipolar disorder can lead productive and enjoyable lives when they follow an appropriate treatment. There is not a specific year for this illness to appear but it is a long-term disorder that has to be treated carefully all along the patient's life (NIMH, 2008). NIMH points out the following about this mental disorder: "Manic-depression distorts moods and thoughts, incites dreadful behaviors, destroys the basis of rational thought, and too often erodes the desire and will to live. It is an illness that is biological in its origins, yet one that feels psychological in the experience of it; an illness that is unique in conferring advantage and pleasure, yet one that brings in its wake almost unendurable suffering and, not infrequently, suicide." It is relevant to note that during the manic episode the person can feel very creative, and it is well known that very intelligent people has suffered from this illness. Among the signs and symptons listed by NIMH about the manic episode there are the following: "Increased energy, activity, and restlessness Excessively "high," overly good, euphoric mood Extreme irritability Racing thoughts and talking very fast, jumping from one idea to another Distractibility, can't concentrate well Little sleep needed Unrealistic beliefs in one's abilities and powers Poor judgment Spending sprees A lasting period of behavior that is different from usual Increased sexual drive Abuse of drugs, particularly cocaine, alcohol, and sleeping medications Provocative, intrusive, or aggressive behavior Denial that anything is wrong" (2008). Among the signs and symptons of the depressive episode, NIMH lists the following: "Lasting sad, anxious, or empty mood Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, including sex Decreased energy, a feeling of fatigue or of being "slowed down" Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions Restlessness or irritability Sleeping too much, or can't sleep Change in appetite and/or unintended weight loss or gain Chronic pain or other persistent bodily symptoms that are not caused by physical illness or injury Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts" (2008). One dangerous feature of the bipolar disorder or manic depression is the fact that during severe crisis the patient can experience psychotic symptons like hallucinations (hearing, seeing, or sensing the presence of things that are not actually there) and delusions (false, strongly held beliefs not influenced by logical thinking or explained by a person's cultural concepts) (NIMH, 2008). These psychotic symptons appear according to the manic or depressive state the patient is experiencing. For example, delusions of grandiosity thoughts reflect a manic state, and suicidal thinking reflect a depressive state (NIMH, 2008). It is important to differentiate between major depression and mania as Conrad Stppler remarks it: "What differentiates bipolar disorder from major depression is the occurrence of manic episodes, often described as emotional "highs," between the episodes of depression. Symptoms of manic states are varied and include restlessness, increased energy, euphoric mood, racing thoughts, poor judgment, intrusive or provocative behavior, difficulty concentrating, and a decreased need for sleep. People experiencing manic episodes often speak very rapidly, seem overly irritable, and may have unrealistic beliefs about their own power and capability" (1996-2008). Mind.Org.UK (1995-2006) states that the most common state for a manic-depressive is the depressive state, and this situation can lead to suicidal feelings. The causes behind this mental illness are not quite clear. MayoClinic.com (2008) points out that "a variety of biochemical, genetic and environmental factors seem to be involved in causing and triggering bipolar episodes." Mind.Org.UK states the following possible causes: "Stress is likely to play a large part, and the role of cortisol on the developing brain is being researched. Prenatal stresses on the developing foetus are seen as important, both environmentally and nutritionally, as well as the impact of the mother's mental and physical health on the foetus" (1995-2006). Other possible causes are stressful life events, unbearable stress caused in early life, such as physical, sexual or emotional abuse, and overwhelming life problems (Mind.Org.UK, 1995-2006). NIMH (2008) puts it another way remarking that "most scientists now agree that there is no single cause for bipolar disorder-rather, many factors act together to produce the illness." Regarding the treatment of bipolar disorder there is a wide variety of options available. Conrad Stppler explains this point as follows: "Treatment of bipolar disorder involves medications known as "mood stabilizers." Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid) is the most commonly prescribed mood stabilizer for people with bipolar disorder, but some anticonvulsant medications, including valproate (Depakote) or carbamazepine (Tegretol), also can have mood-stabilizing effects and may be used in the treatment of bipolar disorder" (1996-2008) MayoClinic.com offers an ample view about the integral treatment of manic-depressive people: "Bipolar disorder is a long-term condition that requires lifelong treatment, even during periods when you feel better. Bipolar disorder treatment is usually guided by a psychiatrist skilled in treating the condition. But you may have others on your treatment team as well, including psychologists, social workers and psychiatric nurses, because the condition can affect so many areas of your life" (2008). Mind.Org.UK (1995-2006) stresses the need of psychotherapy, cognitive behavior therapy, counselling, and group therapy when dealing with the bipolar disorder together with the medical treatment. Besides psychological help, it is strongly recommended to find the spiritual guidance that studying the Bible provides as it is the case of two bipolar disorder patients who found comfort in the truths revealed in the Scriptures for those in need of trustful hope. The Watch Tower Society sums up their experiences as follows: "As can be seen, living with a mood disorder presents unique challenges. However, Cherie and Elaine found that prayerful reliance on God along with appropriate treatment enabled them to improve their lot in life" (2004). In this line of thinking, NIMH asserts the following: "A strategy that combines medication and psychosocial treatment is optimal for managing the disorder over time" (2008). Conrad Stppler (1996-2008) summarizes the situation of anybody suffering from manic depression or bipolar disorder with a deep sense of common sense stating that this is a "long-term illness that can be effectively treated". Conrad Stppler explains it in the following terms: "Even though episodes of mania and depression naturally come and go, it is important to understand that bipolar disorder is a long-term illness that currently has no cure. Staying on treatment, even during well times, can help keep the disease under control and reduce the chance of having recurrent, worsening episodes" (1996-2008). Indeed, the first step for recovering from any mental illness is to be aware of it, to recognize the need for help, help from oneself, help from psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, counsellors, family members and friends. But most of all, it is of the utmost importance to find help in the Holy Scriptures from the Creator. In general terms, everybody needs to have a healthy relationship with God (John 17:3), but in the case of people who suffer from mental illnesses it is of vital importance to stress the need to help them with spiritual advice and support due to the desperate state that they are going through. Hope in a better future is a most, not for bipolar disorder patients, but for all of Humankind. References Conrad Stppler, M. (MD). (1996-2008). In MediceneNet.Com. Retrieved April 4, 2008, from http://www.medicinenet.com/bipolar_disorder/article.htm MayoClinic.com. (2008, Jan 4). Bipolar Disorder. Retrieved April 4, 2008, from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bipolar-disorder/DS00356 Mind.Org.UK. (1995-2006). Understanding Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression). Retrieved April 4, 2008, from http://www.mind.org.uk/Information/Booklets/Understanding/Understanding+manic+depression.htm NIMH. (2008, Apr 3). Bipolar Disorder. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). National Institutes of Health. Retrieved April 4, 2008, from http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/bipolar-disorder/complete-publication.shtml Watch Tower Society. (2004, Jan 8). Understanding Mood Disorders. In Awake! Retrieved April 4, 2008, from http://www.watchtower.org/e/20040108/article_01.htm Read More