Manic depression, or, as it is called these days, bipolar disorder, is characterised by periods of “lows” (depression) and periods of “highs” (mania). In its most extreme forms, a person experiencing the manic phase may require hospitalisation to prevent risky behaviour resulting from the elation and delusion that may occur.
From the Mind website, a quote from one sufferer sums up the experience well:
“When I’m in a manic phase, I feel as though I am capable of anything and everything. This can be an amazing feeling, but I sometimes get frustrated and angry with people. Ideas flow constantly and quickly, as if my brain is on fast-forward. Everything happening in the world has significance in my life. But when I’m depressed, it’s as if I’m completely crushed and living in slow motion. I feel capable of nothing and just want to end it all.”
About 1% of the population experiences manic depression, and research seems to suggest a strong genetic correlation. Medication with lithium salts is common, and the use of antipsychotic medication can be useful when the manic phase needs treatment.
Despite these challenges, manic-depressed people can still learn to control much of their thinking and use hypnosis and NLP techniques to overcome emotional trauma, change limiting beliefs, and stabilise their moods.