But with other patients there is a long interval before the next manic or depressive episode. The depressive phase has the same symptoms as major or unipolar depression. Depressive episodes consist of feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, inability to concentrate, thoughts of death or suicide, change in appetite or weight, and fatigue or loss of energy. Anyone who suspects they or a loved one suffers from manic-depressive illness should receive a complete medical evaluation to rule out any other mental or physical disorders. Once diagnosed, bipolar disorder is a highly treatable condition.
Management is primarily medical and consists of drugs such as lithium.
In addition to medical management, many affected patients will benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. The free RealPlayer software needed to play this video is available from Real Networks . The Saturday Evening Post has taken a particular interest in helping readers understand bipolar disorder. The link at left is an article about manic-depressive illness and an interview with Dr. Kay Redfield Jamison. Use your back button to return here when you are done reading the article.