Understanding Mood
Disorders
by Jay
Miller
zone3
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.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
For more information on depression and other mental health issues
please visit out website HelpingDepression.com
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