People with manic depression may have difficulty keeping a job, or maintaining friendships and family relationships. Although the symptoms manifest as a mental disorder, the root cause is organic brain dysfunction.
Common Symptoms
Each person will experience manic depressive psychosis differently. In addition to violent mood swings, a person may display behaviors which are uncharacteristic. High risk activities like promiscuity, shop lifting ! and reckless driving are not uncommon when the person is in a manic state. Threats of suicide, uncontrollable weeping and lethargy may occur during the depressive state.
In rare case, some people may experience auditory or visual hallucinations. Exaggerated perceptions of other’s behaviors or of the consequences of their own behaviour are fairly common. Delusional behaviour can also occur. If a normally thrifty person starts spending excessively, or a normally modest person suddenly starts believing that they are the best at everything they do, these could be symptoms of manic depression.
Support During Treatment
Once the diagnosis of manic depressive psychosis has been reached it is important manic depression support is offered to the patient. Emotional support is vital to help someone get through treatment. It is important to be patient and understanding with someone who is seeking treatment for manic depressive psychosis.
The patient should go to doctor appointments with their support person. The support person should know the types and dosages of medication prescribed so they can monitor the patient’s medication. Especially early in the treatment, it is not wise to trust a patient to take medication properly. If you notice a change in the patient’s behavior, you should report it immediately.
Successful Treatment
Once an effective treatment is established, it has to be continued for life. Scheduling activities on a daily basis and avoiding disruptive situations will help a patient maintain equilibrium. Sleeping problems are common for people with this disorder and a regular bedtime and routine can alleviate sleeping problems.
Learning when an episode is about to happen can be helpful in avoiding an escalation of the condition. It is also important to have realistic expectation of treatment; symptoms will start to ease gradually over time with continued treatment.
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