Though there has always been individuals in society that oscillate between unreasonably happy and sad states, it was not until the late 19^th century when the condition was first described as “manic depression.”  

Dealing

Now more commonly known by the term “bi polar depression,” this disorder is actually has a rather high rate of suicide, reaching as much as 20 percent higher than the nationwide average.  For those who suspect depression, signs in themselves or others can be very helpful in making a valid assessment and choosing a treatment option.

Very often occurring for the very first time when young adults leave for college, bi polar depression is often thought of a a boon by those who have it, especially during one of the manic episodes when creativity often comes much faster than at other times. In fact, there is some evidence to suggest that some people don't' seek treatment because they consider their manic episodes a very handy part of their personal or processional lives.

Some of the more common manic depression signs to keep a look out for include the relatively common symptoms of lethargy, sadness, irratability, self-medication (most often in the form of tobacco,  marijuana or alcohol), lack of interest in otherwise pleasurable activities (especially sex) and excessive crying or irritability. 

Interspersed with these episodes of depression are manic episodes that can take the form of great and unexpected bursts of energy or a propensity towards making outbursts that the subject would otherwise not even consider making.  The inability to control one's self in situations where is it is not usually a problem may also indicate a manic episode.

The presence of both is necessary to be one of the millions of North Americans that are currently suffering from the ravages of bi polar disorder.  The cycle between the two can take place over the course of several days or weeks, while “rapid cycling” is a condition that can very often be triggered by an incorrect dose of such pharmaceutical chemicals.  Such rapid-cycling often takes place during the course of 24 hours, if not less.

Though professionals have a specific set of diagnostic criteria, one need not be so careful in making the decision to visit a doctor, nurse or other medical professional who can diagnose this potentially life-threatening condition.  Health care professionals will also be able to check for some of the other physical conditions that can give rise to similarly erratic behavior.

No one knows what causes any kind of depression, though it is suggested that manic depression or bi-polar disorder has a complex genetic component.  Regardless, there are several known factors that can encourage the disorder to appear again or make it particularly difficult to control it, even with some of the medication that now has a long history of being used to treat this disorder.

Some triggers include not keeping a regular sleep schedule, with too much sleep actually leading to the depressive state as well as being a symptom, once it has started up.  While many sufferers drink a great deal of coffee, it has been shown that high doses of caffeine can actually increase the likelihood of having a relapse into both manic and depressive behavior

While medication is the most often prescribed treatment for bipolar disorder, changes to the medication, changes in body chemistry over time and individuals changing their dosage of already prescribed medications.