Description

Manic depressive refers to mood swings from overly “high” (manic) to overly “low” (depressed). Another name for manic-depressive illness is bipolar disorder. This refers to a person’s mood alternating between “poles” of mania (highs) and depression (lows). Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes unusual changes in the person’s mood, energy, and ability to function. Manic-depressive illness or bipolar disorder affects both men and women. Although it can start at any age, it usually begins in late adolescence. Bipolar disorder is found among people of all ages, races, ethnic groups, and social classes. It appears to have a genetic link and tends to run in families. Unfortunately, in addition to affecting the sufferer’s life, this disease also has the potential to devastate the lives of the caregivers and those in the immediate family circle. In this video, Dr Philip Mitchel, Director, Mood Disorders Unit, Prince of Wales Hospital and Dr Meg Smith, President, NSW Association for Mental Health discusses about this bipolar disorder on early warning signs and use of marijauna & alcohol through Carlos, Vicki, Gerald, Charlene &  Ross; and ways & means of getting rid of this dis-ease through Medication, Lifestyle, Counselling, Groups, Family & Friends.Produced by Christine Mason & Christopher Thomas