Manic Depression

Like the range of colors seen in a prism, manic depression or bipolar disorder has a spectrum from which psychiatrists make their diagnosis. One of the factors they examine is whether the person is in a depressed, manic, or hypomanic state. A hypomanic state is one in which a person experiences a more controlled mania. The person may become excessively active and feel elated, but does not become disorganized or delusional. People with these symptoms may be cyclothymic, that is they exhibit periods of depression and mania, but for shorter and less intense durations.

While there is no known single cause of manic depression, there appears to be some genetic predisposition, although no specific genetic defect has yet been detected. It usually appears in late adolescence or early adulthood and continues throughout life. Potential causes, such as increased stress or a traumatic emotional event, are many and varied; experts believe a combination of factors may act as a trigger.

In bipolar disorder, the person who experiences periods of depression that alternate with periods of mania is said to have bipolar disorder I, while the person who suffers mild hypomanic periods alternating with periods of depression is classified as having bipolar disorder II. In both illnesses, episodes are limited in time, lasting from several weeks to several months, although depression can last for more than a year without going into remission. If manic depression/bipolar disorder is not treated, however, recurrences tend to become more severe over time.