Mental Health Issues 5

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Mental Health Issues 5

• Manic Depression

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Manic Depression

• Manic Depression is also known as Affective
  Mood Disorder. Bipolar Manic Depression is the
  most common form and involves both low and high
  moods. Some people experience the depression
  stage without the high ( manic ) mood. This is
  known as Unipolar depression. The manifestation
  of the condition, and the severity, is unique to
  the individual like all mental health conditions.

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Manic Depression

• What are the effects of Manic Depression?
• When manic, the sufferer has high levels of
  energy, unrealistic ideas and maybe delusions of
  grandeur. They feel on top of the world and
  that wonderful things can be achieved. Even bad
  news or tragic events cannot change their
  euphoria. In these phases they may take an
  unrealistic involvement in several activities,
  for example volunteering for several tasks,
  joining clubs and starting new hobbies with
  enthusiasm.

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Manic Depression cont.

• They may feel that they can complete work in the
  minimum of time and pass exams without revising.
  If these unrealistic aspirations are criticised
  or stopped, they may become angry.

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Manic Depression cont.

• The manic stage may be followed by a phase of
  normal moods but the depressive stage will
  usually follow at some time. The symptoms of the
  depressive stage may include loss of interest in
  activities, lack of concentration and difficulty
  with decision making. It may also include
  embarrassment because of their behaviour during
  the manic stage. They may feel worthless and
  there can be thoughts of suicide. They are
  extremely sensitive to rejection and failure in
  this phase and there can be thoughts of suicide.

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Manic Depression cont.

• In the manic phase, some may also experiment
  with alcohol or illegal drugs as they want to
  feel higher and higher. They feel nothing can
  damage them. In the depressive state, some may
  resort to the same methods to help deal with the
  depression.

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Manic Depression cont.

• Mood swings make it difficult for other
  students and they may avoid the person with manic
  depression. The student with this mood disorder
  often has very low self esteem and self
  confidence. Any threats or talk of suicide should
  be taken seriously. Medication in the form of
  mood stabilisers and antidepressants often
  controls the situation. Behaviour or cognitive
  therapy may also form part of the treatment.

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Manic Depression cont.

• Student Voices
• When high I feel I can do anything. I stole money
  to buy presents thinking I could pay it back the
  next day.
• Nothing can upset me sometimes Im all
  powerful. I could tame lions, fly an aircraft
  anything!

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Manic Depression cont.

• In low periods I feel helpless and worthless. I
  dont even want to wash or eat.
• I take medication but it makes me feel like a
  Zombie. They change the dose sometimes and I have
  to get used to it.

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Manic Depression cont.

• How can teachers help?
• Manic depression interferes with
  concentration. The student may lose confidence
  and a sense of control over their life. Be aware
  that during high periods, the exaggeration of
  thoughts and feelings can lead to erratic
  behaviour that may create health and safety
  risks. If you are aware of mood swings in a
  student but they have not disclosed a disability,
  talk to the student. Ask other staff if they have
  noticed the same mood swings.

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Manic Depression cont.

• Further information and support
• Starting points
• Manic Depression Fellowship www.mdf.ofg.uk
• Samaritans www.samaritans.org.uk
• BBC Health www.bbc.co.uk/health
• The Mental Health Foundation www.mentalhealth.org
  .uk
• Young Minds www.youngminds.org.uk
• The Royal College of Psychiatrists
  www.rcpsych/mental health information.aspx
• Bipolar Aware www.bipolaraware.co.uk
• Mind www.mind.org.uk