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The Assumption of Will: Depression

February 8, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Happiness is a choice — this is the promise you’ve been offered, the affirmation you’ve been told to seek. Contentment can be earned. Satisfaction can be certain. You must merely be willing to offer the necessary time and energy to procure it. All days can be easy if you allow them to be; and the notion of depression is dismissed, thought to reflect a weak mind and a weaker character. You can be secure in your life. You simply must work for it.

And… you try to, wanting to meet the expectations of the public. You give you all you can; you do what you must. But your feelings don’t shape themselves to comforts. They instead remain wilted, burdened by thoughts you don’t dare to admit. No task is easy. No laugh is real. You can’t generate the essential grins. Instead you find yourself overwhelmed.

And that sensation is not going to leave — not while you’re trying to simply ignore it.

There is an unfortunate stigma attached to the idea of depression. The masses believe it to be nothing more than an excuse for laziness, a reason to remain tucked in bed (letting the world and its realities pass by). Many assume it can be undone through simple desire — and they demand that those suffering from it merely shrug it away, cure themselves through willpower.

This will not happen.

Depression is a serious (potentially life-threatening) disease. It is caused through biological and emotional factors — which spark chemical imbalances and deep despair. It cannot be overcome by a smile. It cannot be tamed with simple refusal. It demands treatment and professional care.

Few are willing to accept this, however. The majority assume this to be a futile illness, think it can be challenged with the proper state of mind. Such a state can’t be achieved, though — depression affects all thoughts, leaves the individual unable to respond as he once would. There is no way to overpower this: it steals the opportunity.

Depression demands help and a cure is only possible through support, not mere determination.

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The Normalcy Belief: Depression

February 3, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Sorrow is to be expected. Despair can’t be denied. Life is far too complicated to ever experience simple happiness — you know this, understand that there will be days that don’t satisfy, hours that trouble. All suffer from occasional discontentment or discomfort. This is the way of things and it’s known to be true.

Such truth leads you to ignore your own worries therefore. You think nothing of the overwhelming dejection. You refuse to acknowledge the pain. It’s common, you’re sure. Everyone experiences it; everyone feels this way. There’s nothing to do but merely… wait. This will pass.

It won’t.

Depression is not to be confused with the typical sadness, the occasional worries — and yet too often do individuals believe themselves to be suffering from nothing more than the proverbial blues. They assume that their feelings are normal and that they will eventually fade away. Such an assumption can lead to a lack of treatment and a worsening of depression, however; and this can be dangerous.

Depression is not a momentary illness. It will not simply disappear. It is instead a persistent — and complete — sense of despair. Those who suffer from it are defined by chemical imbalances; and these cause a prolonged sadness (which can last for months, or even years, at a time). This cannot be considered normal.

Instead individuals must be able to recognize the differences between occasional dissatisfaction and genuine worry. The feelings will be far worse; the longevity will be far more distressing; and there will be no lull in the illness. It will instead remain — causing endless complications.

Do not mistake depression for lesser concerns. Do not think it to be common. You must instead be able to distinguish the disease from others and understand its severity. This is not proof of rainy day worries. This is instead a tragic — and frightening — disability. It must be offered treatment and care; and this can’t be accomplished if you dismiss it as just an expectation.

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The Gender Myths: Depression

February 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Sadness is a woman’s concern. Despair is defined by the fairer sex. This is the assumption of the masses — depression is thought to affect only the female percentage of the population, with men meant to be immune.

Such a belief began long ago: when all women were thought to be hysterical simply by virtue of their lack of a y chromosome. Their troubles were all emotional, it was assured. They were therefore to be pitied, coddled in their madness: while men were to remain strong. This was the certainty. This was the assurance.

And it still exists.

The misconception of depression is that is belongs purely to women. No man is meant to endure dejection. No boy is to feel the strain. It’s meant instead to be offered only to one gender — and all assume this to be true.

It’s not.

While none can deny that women do experience depression at higher percentages than men (often being twice as likely to succumb to it), none can also deny that the number of male patients is greatly underdeveloped. The statistics are skewed; the information is vague. There are no standard estimations. Instead there is merely the cliche of a disease and who it targets.

Men can become depressed — this must be understood. They are not resistant to the illness, will not (miraculously) be able to defend against it. Instead they can experience it just as women do. It is simply impossible to determine precisely how many cases occur throughout the year.

This is due to males being reluctant to admit their problems (guided still by the belief that they should never be sad). It’s thought that the majority do not confess what they’re feeling and this makes estimating their numbers a challenge. It should be noted, however, that men are three times as likely to commit suicide due to this disease — often simply because they didn’t receive treatment.

The notion of a disease being shaped to a gender is absurd. Depression can affect anyone of any age; and this must be recognized by all.

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Symptoms of Manic Depression

January 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Manic depression or bipolar disorder, as it is most often referred to, has a variety of symptoms. These symptoms are characteristic of mood states or mood episodes the individual is experiencing. Often, individuals with bipolar disorder experience mood swings that range from severe mania to severe depression. Each state has their own specific symptoms that are displayed in mood, activity, sleep patterns, and behaviors.

Mania or manic states are characterized as excessively or overly happy and excited states. The symptoms of a manic episode include an overly outgoing or overly happy mood for long periods of time. Manic episodes are characterized by being restless or easily distracted, limited sleep, excessive and rapid talking or jumping from one idea to another very quickly.

Additionally, manic episodes are often demonstrated by impulsive and inappropriate behaviors based on pleasurable activities or beginning new projects that are based on goal-directed activities. Finally, even though manic episodes are typically periods of extreme highs, individuals in this state still tend to be irritable, agitated, or jumpy.

Depressive states are often episodes that demonstrate periods of extreme lows and are characterized by long periods of low emotional states such as feeling worried, hopeless, or useless. Individuals in this state often lose interest in pleasurable activities, have decreased activity, are typically restless or irritable, and have difficulty with brain functions such as memory, concentration, or making decisions. Behaviors will also change such as eating and sleeping patterns.

Finally some individuals experience what is called mixed states. These are episodes which are characterized by excessive lows while still experiencing increased energy and activity levels.

Bipolar disorder can affect a person’s ability to interact with others, perform daily tasks, relationships with others, and perceptions of themselves and their own abilities. If gone untreated mild symptoms can develop into more severe episodes. Individuals experiencing symptoms like this should seek the advice of a mental health professional.

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How You Behave Matters

January 19, 2011 By Leave a Comment

No one is perfect. Everyone knows that. So naturally you’d think there are some demons in your closet or maybe you have relationship issues that give you troubles from time to time. In all honesty, that’s normal. Nevertheless, you’d be surprised that it is important to include in your health insurance plan a segment devoted to behavioral health for whatever might happen in your life or in the lives of your spouse and children. Anything traumatic would ever happen in life would fester later on and could damage connections and an ability to maintain sociability. So recognize the importance.

It is especially important if you or anyone in your family already has a serious illness of some kind, either trauma-based or genetically based. Usually what follows such events is depression or any other mental illness that would need special treatment. It’s important to consider an insurance quote and then find the best match that fits your needs. It also benefits you well through your years as a senior citizen, especially when you’re in the care of a licensed professional.

How much it will cost extra does matter. But what matters more is the benefit that the well-being of your mind and all of its parts are protected from any possible harm. Naturally, what follows the mind is the body; so if the mind gets into trouble, the body follows. It would stand to reason to protect your mind the best way possible. Consider as many quotes as you’d like as well to find the right policy for you. Each one varies and services a certain kind of illness or temperament or history, so be careful with how you make your decision.

Know that if you don’t, even though your body is protected from viruses and bacteria in general, if your mind gets into serious trouble, youare in trouble. And the truth is you don’t want that.

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Other treatments for Bipolar Disorder or Manic Depression

January 15, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Manic depression also referred to as Bipolar Disorder, is often treated with medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two. However, when these treatments are not effective or when additional treatment is needed, other options exist. These additional options include electroconvulsive therapy, also known as shock therapy, in addition to other options such as sleep medications and for some herbal supplements.

The only other proven treatment for bipolar disorder or manic depression is called electroconvulsive therapy. This treatment is not recommended as a first option for treatment. Rather, electroconvulsive therapy is reserved for those individuals with bipolar disorder who do respond to medication or psychotherapy or for those who are unable to take medication due to another condition such as pregnancy.

When a patient experiences electroconvulsive therapy they generally undergo anesthesia. They are then exposed to a brief and mild electric shock. The patient is exposed to the electrical current for a period of between 30 to 90 seconds.

The whole procedure usually takes only 5 to 15 minutes. Some patients do have mild side effects such as disorientation, mild memory loss, and confusion, but these usually dissipate quickly after treatment is administered.

Additional treatments that can be used in conjunction with medication and psychotherapy include sleep medications which are used to help those individuals who have difficulty sleeping even with conventional bipolar medications. Some patients also prefer to try herbal supplements which have not been proven to aid bipolar disorder or in some cases such as St. John’s wart can actually cause mania in some patients.

Depending on each individual’s situation, the effectiveness of a particular treatment may vary. Most often patients respond well to mediation or psychotherapy. For those who do not, other options are available. These individuals with bipolar disorder should always talk to a mental health professional to help determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

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Psychotherapy Treatments for Manic Depression

January 13, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Psychotherapy is a popular and proven treatment plan for individuals with manic depression, also referred to as bipolar disorder. Often psychotherapy is used in conjunction with medication plans. Typically, there are four different types of psychotherapy, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy, family focused therapy, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, and pyschoeducation.

The most common of these therapies is cognitive behavioral therapy also referred to as talk therapy. This type of therapy typically focuses on providing the bipolar individual with the skills and strategies necessary to improve thought and behavior patterns. This therapy is intended to aid individuals in targeting these negative thoughts and behaviors, which allow them to select more positive and healthier ones.

Another therapy is called pyschoeducation. This therapy often occurs in group settings and is designed to educate individuals with the disease on aspects of bipolar disorder or manic depression. Through pyschoeducation, patients learn information about bipolar, treatment plans, signs and symptoms of episodes, and skills needed to detect when early treatment is needed.

Additionally, therapy that is typically completed in a group setting and is beneficial for family members is family – focused therapy. This therapy approach is used to aid families and individuals with the disease with coping strategies and skills, as well as improve family relationships, reduce stress on families, and provide the knowledge and skills necessary to support the bipolar individual.

The last common psychotherapy is called interpersonal and social rhythm therapy. Designed to help the bipolar individual improve relationships and create and maintain daily routines, this therapy is beneficial for those who wish to lead normal and high functioning life styles. The approach allows the individual to strengthen relationships with others and provides them with skills or strategies necessary to successfully manage their daily lives so episodes of mania or depression do not impede their daily functions.

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Treating Bipolar Disorder with Medication

January 11, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Medications for bipolar disorder, also called manic depression, usually fall into one of three categories. These categories include mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and atypical antipsychotic medications. Some patients only have to take one type of medication while others may have to take a combination of the three.

Mood stabilizing medications are the most common form of medication used to treat bipolar disorder. Usually, these medications are considered anticonvulsive medications, which can aid individuals with bipolar disorder control mood episodes. A number of different prescriptions can be prescribed that have proven effective as treatment for bipolar disorder.

A second type of medication that can be prescribed for manic depression is called atypical antipsychotic medications. These medications are considered atypical because they are usually not conventional medication or are not first generation medications. These medications are often prescribed in conjunction with other medications and are generally prescribed to focus on specific systems. Some work better for manic episodes while others treat both mania and mixed episodes. Additionally, some can be prescribed to help manage more severe episodes, mania, or psychosis.

The last type of medication is called antidepressants. These typically target depression episodes and are usually prescribed in conjunction with mood stabilizers.  Additionally, taking only antidepressants can make some patients more susceptible to episodes of mania, hypomania, or can even increase the possibility of rapid cycling onset. Furthermore, current research by the National Institute of Mental Health has suggested that a significant number of patients do not perform better with both antidepressants and mood stabilizers as opposed to taking just mood stabilizer medications.

Medication is a large part of the treatment process for individuals with this disorder. Therefore, individuals with this disorder should consult a mental health professional prior to starting or ending medications. Side effects are present with each type and brand of medication. However, medication treatment can be effective at helping individuals manage episodes and systems to lead productive and healthier lifestyles.

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Types of Bipolar Disorder

January 8, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Manic depression or bipolar disorder can be different for each individual that suffers from this disease. Typically, bipolar disorder can be categorized as one of four different types. These types include Bipolar I, Bipolar II, Bipolar disorder not otherwise specified, and Cyclothymic Disorder. Each of these types or categories of Bipolar disorder exhibit differences in length or type of symptoms.

Bipolar I disorder is characterized by mixed moods that dramatically alter an individual’s normal behavior. This type is also characterized by the length of those moods. Individuals with Bipolar I usually suffer from manic episodes that can last for a minimum of two weeks.

Bipolar II disorder is characterized by a specific pattern created that alternates between episodes of depression and episodes of hypomania. Hypomania is less severe and usually allows the individual the ability to still function. This type does not show signs of severe or manic episodes.

A third type is referred to as Bipolar disorder not otherwise specified, or BP-NOS. This type is often diagnosed when an individual shows signs and symptoms of depression, mania, mixed, or hypomania episodes. However, the episodes are not as severe, or are not as long, or do not develop a specific pattern. As a result, individuals with this type express behaviors uncharacteristic of their normal behavior but do not fit the requirements to be diagnosed as Bipolar I or II.

The last category is called Cyclothymic Disorder. Also called Cyclothymia, this disorder is often considered a more mild form. Individuals with this type often suffer from mild depression or mild hypomania. However, these episodes are mild and occur irregularly for at least two years. However, for those who have excessive episodes, these individuals are said to be rapid cycling.

Despite the type of manic depression or bipolar disorder, individuals can still be treated. Treatment can aid individuals in managing the effects of this disease as well as lead longer and healthier lifestyles.

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Effects of Manic Depression

January 4, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Manic Depression, often referred to as bipolar disorder, can cause strain and difficulties on and for family members, friends, and other relationships. These strains or effects can range from stress, financial difficulties, isolation, health problems, and emotional strain.

Although manic depression can be treated and individuals with this disorder can lead normal productive lives, these individuals are still susceptible to mood swings and depressive episodes. When these occur, many aspects of their lives as well as their family and friends are affected. The most prevalent of these difficulties rises as a result of emotional strain.

Emotional responses from family and close friends of individuals with manic depression are often a result of their inability to understand or help during the individual’s depression state. For instance, children who do not understand what is occurring with their parent can feel guilty or responsible for causing the change in behavior.

Additionally, spouses, parents, or other adult family members can experience anger, frustration, and fear when faced with the manic depressive individual’s mood changes. Often these emotional responses can be addressed with knowledge, understanding, and support for the families who have a manic depressive member.

Other effects on family members include health problems as a result of stress and strain, and financial difficulties as a result of medical bills, loss of wages by the manic depressive individual, or an inability for the manic depressive person to control spending. Finally, family members may experience other affects such as isolation from friends and the community, relationship challenges between family members, and grief or loss resulting from the feeling that they have lost the individual they once knew.

Although handling manic depression can be challenging for the individual and the families, support, guidance, and knowledge can be obtained by family members. Family members struggling with affects from this disorder should speak to a professional and seek out resources or informational materials to guide them in the changes occurring within the family.

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