A Magazine of People and
Possibilities
Manic Depressive
Disorder
Bipolar Mood Disorder
by Dr. Raj Rakhra
Medically termed bipolar mood disorder
is a variation of classic depression. It typically begins as depression
and then develops into alternating periods of depression and mania.
A person with severe manic depression may go from feeling happy
or elated to feeling overwhelmed and feeling low, miserable or
in despair. It is characterized by an alternating pattern of emotional
highs (mania) and lows (depression). The intensity of the associated
signs and symptoms varies. Bipolar disorder can range from a mild
condition to a severe condition, and there may be periods of normal
behavior. The course of manic depressive disorder is highly variable.
Both depression and mania can vary in severity and the length
of time cycles and last for days, weeks or months.
Episodes of mania and depression typically recur during ones
lifespan. Between episodes, most people with bipolar disorder
are free of symptoms, but as many as one-third of people have
some residual symptoms. A small percentage of people experience
chronic unremitting symptoms despite treatment. Due to the complex
nature of the disorder, it has been suggested that many individuals
may go undiagnosed their entire lives.
Both children and adolescents can develop bipolar disorder. It
is more likely to affect the children of parents who have the
illness. Unlike many adults with bipolar disorder, whose episodes
tend to be more clearly defined, children and young adolescents
with the illness often experience very fast mood swings between
depression and mania many times within a day. Children with mania
are more likely to be irritable and prone to destructive tantrums
than to be overly happy and elated. Mixed symptoms also are common
in youths with bipolar disorder. Older adolescents who develop
the illness may have more classic, adult-type episodes and symptoms.
Manic phase
For many people, signs and symptoms in the manic phase may include:
Feelings of euphoria, extreme optimism and inflated self-esteem,
rapid speech, racing thoughts, agitation, increased physical activity,
poor judgment, recklessness or taking chances not normally taken,
a tendency to be easily distracted, inability to concentrate and
aggressive behavior.
Depressive phase
In the depressive phase, signs and symptoms include: persistent
feelings of sadness, anxiety, low esteem, guilt or hopelessness,
disturbances in sleep and appetite, fatigue and loss of interest
in daily activities, problems concentrating and irritability,
lack of motivation to do anything.
Some people simply sleep for weeks and withdraw from social activities,
avoiding relationships with others. Some people seem to be working
and living a normal life, interacting with others but having
an inwards feeling of sadness, anxiety, despair and inability
to experience genuine pleasure.
The cause of this disorder is not well understood. It may be
triggered by episodes of extreme stress or trauma. Heredity may
be a factor in some cases. Childhood traumas may play a role in
some people. Monomines, the brain chemicals are depleted in some
depressed patients.
There are drugs allopathic doctors use in many patients with
great success, but there are many patients who avoid drugs due
to side effects, drug intolerance or for other reasons. Ayurvedic,
Naturopathic, Homeopathic remedies and nutritional substances
are quite helpful, alone or along with allopathic medicine and
they can complement each other.
Ayurvedic supplements including Ashavgandha, Brahmi, Chavan prash
are tonics to the brain and are quite helpful. A change of diet
and lifestyle according to Dosha will be necessary for good results.
Each dosha has specific personality, desires, needs, tolerances
and they act and react differently, even in very similar situations.
Disturbances in Vata and Pitta Doshas are predominant in Depression
and Mania. Balancing the dosha with herbs, meditation and yoga
will help.
It is very important to consult your Naturopathic Doctor before
using the following remedies. (They may interact with drugs and
can cause adverse reactions.)
- Amino complex to supply protein, needed for normal brain function.
- Ltyrosine is important in treating depression, stabilizing mood
swings. Do not take if you are taking MAO inhibitor drugs.
- Tyrosine when deficient can cause hyperactivity, anxiety and
poor brain function.
- Vitamin B complex, B6, B12 injections combined in a single injection
once or twice a week can supply vitamins essential for normal
brain function and a healthy nervous system.
- Zinc plus copper in small amounts protect the brain cells. Excessive
use is harmful.
- Lithium, a trace mineral that alters the manic depressive cycle,
produces great mood stability. Blood work is a must before taking
this supplement.
- Epa / Dha Improve cerebral circulation and stabilize blood pressure.
- 5-hydroxytryptophan- increases serotonin. Do not use without
consulting your Naturopathc Doctor.
- Multi-Vitamin-Mineral Complex, Nicotenamide increases dopamine
and serotonin production. Vitamin C is a great antioxidant. Its
deficiency may cause many disorders.
- Vitamin D is useful especially during fall and winter.
Eat a diet that consists of vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, beans
and legumes. Eat white fish and turkey twice a week. Eat fish
high in omega 3 fatty acids such as tuna, salmon or mackerel.
Avoid sugar, processed foods, alcohol, caffeine, carbonated beverages,
food colorings, preservatives and other additives.
Avoid known allergic foods. Check with your health care practitioner
for your specific needs. Avoid choline and the aminoacids ornithine
and arginine.
Avoid drugs that are not prescribed by your Doctor.Maintain your
routine daily activities. Sleeping 6-8 hours a night is very important.
Daily exercise is important and avoiding stressful situations
at work or at home.
Dr. Rakhra is a Naturopathic Physician, serving Calgary
for more than twenty years and practicing Complementary Medicine since 1964. He is a
Member of Alberta Association of Naturopathic Doctors. Dr. Rakhra's clinic is located at 121 - 14 Street North West in Calgary, Alberta. You
can reach his office at 403-270-7033. Visit his website at: www.aynh.com.
Read more articles by Dr. Rakhra Here.