Understanding Manic Depressive Psychosis
If you have a friend or loved one who is suddenly indulging in bizarre behavior and is not acting normally, they may be suffering f! rom manic depressive psychosis. Manic depressive disorder is characterized by violent mood swings from high to low and is believed to be caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. The symptoms most typically appear in adults between 25 to 35 years of age. This is a disease which can seriously effect a person’s ability to function.
Manic depression can affect a person’s ability to hold down a job, attend school, and can also damage relationships with loved ones. However this is also a mental illness that can be treated though treatment lasts a lifetime.
Frequent Occurring Symptoms
Behaviorally a person may alternate between two extremes. When feeling depressed an individual may feel extremely tired, entertain suicidal thoughts, and have difficulty concentrating. The opposite of this behavior may include high risk behavior such as promiscuity and spending sprees, seemingly boundless energy, and may talk fast and experience racing thoughts.
Rarely, people with manic depression may have visual or auditory hallucinations. Delusional thinking is not uncommon. People with this disease may exaggerate or minimize the consequences of their actions. One minute they may think they are immune from harm and the next minute believing that any action they take will result in disaster.
Support System
Most people suffering from manic depressive psychosis respond well to medication. It is vital that they have a good emotional support system. It may take some time to determine the right medications and the right dosages and the side effects can be hard to deal with. It takes patience and understanding to help someone receiving treatment for manic depressive psychosis. .
Because manic depressive psychosis can cause delusional thinking, it is important that the patient be accompanied by a relative or close friend when they go to doctor appointments. This support person should be aware of the amounts and dosages of medications so they can monitor the patient and make sure they are taking their medication properly. They can also observe the patient’s symptoms and report back to the doctor.
Successful Treatment
To be successful, treatment plans for manic depressive psychosis must be strictly adhered to. People suffering from this disorder benefit from having a regular schedule. The more a sufferer knows about his disease, the better he will be able to actively participate in his own treatment, and the more effective the treatment will be.
The more a patient is able to participate in his treatment, the more likely it is that the treatment will be successful. Recognizing the symptoms of an episode before it can become full blown, can prevent a relapse. Treatment for this disease is life long.