Manic-depression---also known by the more modern name "bipolar disorder"---is a mental disorder marked by dramatic changes in mood. Living with bipolar disorder can be very difficult, but a correct diagnosis and quality treatment can help people with bipolar disorder and their loved ones build and maintain stable, healthy relationships. If you're close to someone with bipolar disorder, it's good to know deal with a crisis situation if one occurs.
Identification
People with manic-depression or bipolar disorder experience drastic mood swings. They may feel on top of the world or hyper---the "manic" phase--then suddenly plunge into depression, without the influence of any outside factor that would make them experience these feelings. Severe episodes of mania can produce psychotic symptoms, like hallucinations or delusional beliefs. These episodic moods can last for weeks or months, or for just days or hours, depending on the type of bipolar disorder.
Types
Bipolar I disorder involves one episode of mania with or without depressive episodes. People with bipolar II disorder have very short manic episodes and longer periods of depression. Cyclothemia involves milder mood swings toward mania or depression. Some people rapidly cycle from mood to mood or experience mania and depression at the same time.
Treatment
Bipolar disorder is treated with mood stabilizing drugs, such as lithium. Anti-seizure medication can also help stop rapid mood swings. Atypical antipsychotic medications can be used when anti-seizure drugs don't work. Some medications cause side effects, which can be serious, such as raising the risk of diabetes or high blood pressure. These medications may also affect a developing fetus, so women who are considering pregnancy should speak with their doctors about the possibility of continuing medication. Therapy is also helpful in teaching life skills.
Relationships
It can be hard to form relationships when bipolar disorder is a factor. It may feel like there's a third person in the relationship---you, your loved one, and the disease. It's important to be honest about bipolar disorder in a relationship---trying to conceal it is a disservice to yourself and to your partner. Couples or family therapy can help you work out relationship and communications issues. If you are the partner of someone with bipolar disorder, realize that you are not alone and that you deserve help and support when you need it.
Crisis
If someone you love is in an emotional crisis state (such as feeling suicidal), it's important to get him help as soon as possible. Don't leave the person alone---if possible, take the person to an emergency room or psychiatric hospital. If that's not possible, call 911 or a suicide hotline. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline is available at (800) 273-TALK.
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