Thursday, October 12, 2006

Hope For Those Suffering From Manic Depression - Athlyn Green

A bombshell has dropped! You or a loved one have been diagnosed with manic depression. After the initial shock has lessened, you find yourself trying to understand this disorder. It makes sense to educate yourself about bipolar disorder, when attempting to deal with and recover from this condition.



Questions may arise regarding the origin or cause of manic depression. Do genetics influence whether a person is born with it or will be affected later in life? Are early experiences significant and can stressful events trigger onset of symptoms? Much has been said about chemical imbalances. Is there a correlation between nutritional deficiencies and biochemical imbalances in the brain?



Although the illness appears to have a genetic link, seemingly running in families, no gene has been identified that can be said to be responsible or the cause of manic depression and experts are divided in their opinions as to whether genes actually play a part.



Psychological factors may also play a role. Children who have experienced traumatic events and suffered emotional damage may be at greater risk. Some sufferers can pinpoint a period of great stress precipitating or triggering onset of their condition and feel this may be at the root of or the cause of manic depression in their case.



More significantly, however, extensive research shows that nutritional deficiencies in the brain and nervous system can have an impact on the brain's delicate balance, with neurotransmitters and the nervous system being compromised. These deficiencies can contribute or may be a cause of manic depression because nutritional imbalances and deficiencies may cause neurotransmitters and brain impulses to malfunction, leading to thought and mood fluctuations and changes in energy or behavior. These changes can last for hours or days, weeks or even months. For someone living with manic depression, life can be a roller coaster. Moods can swing between highs (mania) and lows (depression).



When examining characteristics of or defining what is manic depression it may be helpful to describe how a brain deficient in the right nutrients may present chemistry consistent with bipolar disorder. During a manic phase a person may feel a heightened sense of self-importance, increased self-confidence, and euphoric feelings. In this overactive state, a person may experience racing thoughts and rapid speech and may be bubbling over with plans. Impulsivity and poor judgment may lead to spending sprees and debts; irritation and anger may be more readily activated. When we continue to define what is manic depression the most consistent symptom and the one presenting the biggest challenge, is often the depression sufferers experience. The sadness, worry, anxiety, guilt, and worthlessness can feel overwhelming. Appetite and sleep patterns may be affected. Trying to concentrate and remember can make even the simplest tasks seem monumental. All of this can combine to provoke suicidal feelings.



Thankfully, promising new treatments offer hope. One effective treatment option is the use of natural remedies. Natural remedies incorporate essential and key ingredients, providing nutrients that work to correct deficiencies and imbalances in the brain, restoring positive mood, repairing neurotransmitter malfunction, and increasing emotional energy. Key nutrients found in natural supplements are: Choline Bitartrate or Phosphatidyl Choline, L-Valine, Selenium, and Valerian, to name a few. These nutrients address deficiencies that may be a cause of manic depression and offer hope to sufferers.




We have discussed what is manic depression what causes it, symptoms, and how use of natural remedies is a safe and scientifically backed alternative treatment approach for bipolar disorder. More information about the cause of manic depression can be found at our site.



Athlyn Green is an avid health enthusiast with an interest in natural remedies for treatment of health disorders. She is a regular contributor to several health sites, including Beat Your Depression, a site dedicated to treating depression safely and effectively.



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