Signs of manic depressionWhat are the signs of manic depression? (Note: manic depression is now known more often as bipolar disorder.) When we talk about "signs" rather than "symptoms" we are talking about observable manic depression actions and behavior that signal the possibility of manic depression (bipolar disorder) to other people.
We need to learn about manic depressive signs because it is hard to understand what is going on inside other people. Although manic depressive illness by definition includes extreme moods, the illness also disrupts perception so that it is possible to not realize one is experiencing symptoms of manic depressive illness (bipolar disorder). This makes it extremely important to be able to recognize the signs. These objective signs are the observable behavior that can greatly assist diagnosis. If you or a loved one has bipolar disorder it is essential to be able to recognize these warning signs - the red flags. The red flags that alert us to the possibility of manic depression usually appear in late teenage to early adulthood. The signs of bipolar disorder often confusing, subtle, and easily overlooked or misinterpreted. In particular, mania may not be accurately identified, even when all the signs of mania are present because this aspect of the illness is the most misunderstood. Depression in comparision is much better understood. Ignorance of the signs of mania leads to a high degree of misdiagnosis. For example, it is common for people with manic depressive illness to be misdiagnosed as simply depressed. In fact, on average it takes up to ten years and visits to multiple doctors, counselors and psychiatrists to obtain an accurate and reliable diagnosis. If more people could recognize the signs of mania, much of the self-destruction, relationship problems, legal issues, finanacial implosions and so forth could be avoided - as would so much suffering. Learn more about signs and symptoms of manic depression Recognizing manic signsThe better you know a person the easier it is to recognize when they are becoming manic. Although they may be having symptoms such as racing thoughts that are not visible on the outside, there are also observable signs of manic depression.These will be different for each individual. However, we can say there are some common signs. Remember the key is that this NOT how the person usually behaves.
1. Reckless driving. 2. Not sleeping much but seeming to thrive, maybe on as little as three hours a night. 3. Becoming very talkative, especially is their speech is speeded up and/or loud. Also look out for long and confusing monologues, even if other people are trying or interupt, or maybe even not even listening. 4. A pronounced step-up in goal oriented behavior, for example starting new projects at home or work. 5. Reckless, uninhibited behavior that may be fun but which shows a lack or judgment. Examples may be gambling sprees, shoppong sprees, spontaneous decisions to travel, "crazy" business schmes or financial investments, or promiscuity, including sexual infidelity. 6. Uncharacteristic irritability, impatience, anger, hostility and/or paranoia. Recognizing depression signsBehavior characteristic of depression also counts amongst the signs of manic depression.Sometimes people do not like to (or do not know how to) talk about their feelings. Further, part of depression may be avoidance and withdrawing from people.
1. Slowed down speech. 2. Slowed down movement. 3. Dramatic, sudden weight gain or loss. 4. Not wanting to get out of bed. 5. Avoiding usual social activities. 6. Lack of motivation in general. 7. Neglecting routine activities such as grooming, for example not washing hair or showering as often, stopping shaving or wearing make-up, staying in sweats instead of putting on regular clothes and so forth. NOTE: REMEMBER - this must be different to that person's usual behavior. A perpetual slob is not the same as a healthy motivated person who withdraws and becomes neglectful due to an episode of depression. Manic depressive behaviorSo can it be said that there is recognizable manic depressive behavior? In my opinion, yes, definately.When someone is experiencing an episode of mania or depression, their behavior will be different to how they act when they are well and having "normal" moods.
In fact, it is this altered behavior that causes most of the problems for manic depressive people. Acting out our internal symptoms in the workplace, in our close relationships, or just generally in society can cause conflict and lead to destroyed careers, marriages, finances or even legal consequences. In fact, part of the diagnostic criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, 1994 the DSM-IV) is that the signs of manic depression include grave adverse "real world" consequences such as workplace problems, conflict in personal relationships, disruptions in usual social activities, OR hospitalization to avoid harm to self or others. Please note that not all the signs of manic depression are negative. Someone may display heightened productivity or creativity. Or they may be more "fun" than usual. Sometimes we want to ignore the signs of manic depression in loved ones because their "up" mood may be enjoyable. Examples may be more frequent and exciting lovemaking or suggesting a spontaneous vacation. I am not suggesting this "blindness" is intentional or collusive behavior. It may be that we just don't understand the signs of manic depression or know someone well enough to realize they are acting in a way that is out of character and has the potential to escalate to dangerous levels.
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