Experiencing Manic Depression

Suffering from depression while living with bipolar disorder is double trouble. Manic depression affects a person who has a bipolar illness more than someone feeling depressed, and it is much more difficult to control or deal with.

Having depressive symptoms, if you are bipolar, intensifies them. You will find yourself without any energy or desire to do anything and find no enjoyment in activities or people. This depression may cause you to become ill because you will find that you are not hungry - you do not eat properly or at all. You sleep less, causing you more fatigue during the day. You may normally be a "take charge" person, but at these times, it is difficult to concentrate, think clearly, and make decisions. You will vacillate and question your own ability. Your thoughts and even your speech may become slowed because the depression causes all of you to slow down.

It is difficult to bounce back from depression with bipolar disorder. Your slowness will be such a change from your normal pace, especially your pace when you are manic, that your family may be affected. All of these issues combine together to make you feel overwhelmingly sad. This deep sadness is difficult. You need your family to understand your symptoms and to support you. If you do not feel you are improving, or if you have thoughts of suicide, it is time to visit your physician. The logical side of you knows that with bipolar illness you will return to yourself, but your emotional and functional self will not be able to see into the future. That's why it is vital for your family to know you suffer from this illness, what its symptoms are, how to help, and what to do if the symptoms appear to become worse. With their support and understanding, you will survive this very real crisis and again enjoy life and living it.