Its shocking to note that mood disorders these days are not
uncommon. In the United States alone it is estimated that between 15 and 20
million people suffer from depressive disorders. Most symptoms of depression
would be characterized as overwhelming sadness and loss of joy and pleasure in
daily activities. Depression has been called the "common cold of mental
illness," not indicating that symptoms of depression are mild, but because they
are widespread.
Bipolar disorder is one of many types of depression that
affects many individuals. More recently this disorder has been given more public
light. Symptoms of this disorder often include mixed states of mania and
depression. Often times during the depression phase of bipolar disorder patients
are plagued with thoughts of suicide, while during the manic phase the patient
has far more energy than normal. Often times they are very talkative, and
experience a huge boost in self-confidence.
It is estimated that bipolar
disorder affects about 2.3 million adults in the United States in any given
year. A worldwide accounting of bipolar disorder in adults is alot higher.
Statistical numbers of mood disorders cannot, however, descibe the pain and
suffering that such ones go through.
Depression
Everyone
experiences a "case of the blues" from time to time, but most often it only
lasts a relativly short time. This would not be considered clinical depression,
which is far more serious than a "case of the blues."
What causes
clinical depression? While it is not fully understood as to all the causes of
clinical depression it is noted that there are many biological and emotional
factors that contribute to the development of a severe depressive disorder. It
effects more than 19 million American's a year, and it is estimated that
approximately 3% to 5% of teenagers suffer from clinical depression every
year.
Those suffering from chronic depression often fail to realize the
seriousness of their condition. Just how serious is it? It has often been linked
to lack of performance, alcohol and drug abuse, severe feelings of worthlessnes
and guilt, and in many cases suicide.
Often times having an empathetic
friend that will lend a listening ear can bring great relief. However because
the biochemical factor that is involved with the disorder it is not often
realistic to rely solely on your friends listening ear.
Mood disorders
such as clinical depression often have a great impact on family members.
However, there are things that family members can do to help those ailing from
the condition. Wholehearted support is vital when a loved one is suffering from
this disorder. It is often helpful to study up on the condition and become
thoroughly familiar with the disorder. This will allow ones to be able to better
cope and deal with the sufferer.
Bipolar Disorder
Living with
depression can be a great challenge, but the challenge is even greater when it
is coupled with mania, a mood swing in bipolar disorder. Family members may
often be confused as to the erratic behavior of those suffering from bipolar
disorder. States Becky, "Its hard to see my brother switching from a happy
person to such a sad person so suddenly. It's very hard on all of the family, we
all feel helpless like there is nothing we can do."
Bipolar's effects are
not just directed one way. Often times the pain is reflected inwards as well to
the sufferer. The patient suffering from bipolar disorder may often be left
confused at the lack of stability in their life.
What is the cause of
bipolar disorder? Through several studies scientists are trying to uncover the
cause of bipolar disorder. While there is no known single cause of bipolar
disorder it is know that genetics plays a big part in the cause. Family members
that are directly related to ones who suffer from bipolar depression have a
greater chance of developing the bipolar or major depression in your
lifetime.
Bipolar disorder knows no gender, and has an equal opportunity
of affecting both sexes. Most often the disorder starts developing in young
adulthood, however cases studies have shown development of the disorder in
younger age groups. Since the symptoms are so wide in their range it is often
hard to detect, especially when intervals between mania and depression can last
years.
While living with depression or bipolar depression may be hard,
and equally as hard to diagnose there is hope for those that suffer from
them.
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