According to the experts at Mayo Clinic, manic-depression is better known as bipolar disorder, a condition which causes those who suffer from it to experience severe mood swings. They may go through periods of extreme highs, also known as mania, followed by periods of extreme lows, better known as depression. Treatment options exist for those with manic-depression; however, there are various types of this disorder, so before effective treatment can be sought the disorder must first be properly categorized.
Bipolar I
According to the mental health experts at HealthyPlace.com, this type of manic-depression is the most severe due to the extreme manic episodes it causes. To be diagnosed with bipolar I, the patient must experience either one or more manic episodes or a cycling (from mania to depression and back again) of manic-depressive episodes almost every day for a week. These episodes must also be accompanied with at least one major episode of depression by itself during this time.
Bipolar II
As stated by HealthyPlace.com, bipolar II is serious; however, there are fewer and less-severe episodes of mania and depression. To be accurately diagnosed, the patient must display one or more episodes of depression that are accompanied by episodes of hypomania, a less-severe type of mania. Depending on the person, hypomanic episodes may be so subtle they are difficult to notice and may not interfere with her ability to function at work, school or home.
Cyclothymic
This type of manic-depression is diagnosed when your loved one displays chronic (recurring) changes in his moods, which fluctuate between depression and hypomania. Although these mood swings are typically less severe and shorter in length, they can still have a negative effect on his ability to function normally. HealthyPlace.com states that those diagnosed with cyclothymic disorder generally progress to bipolar I or II.
Not Otherwise Specified
This type of bipolar disorder is given as a diagnosis when your loved one displays manic or depressive episodes on occasion, but does not quite fit the criteria of the above-mentioned types. Although her symptoms may not be as frequent or severe, this type of manic-depression can be treated just as the others can.
