Manic Depressive Illness or Bipolar Disorder

Manic depressive illness or bipolar disorder is a mood disorder in which the patient's moods often change in cycles, going from a manic high in which the patient often feels euphoric, to devastating lows in which the patient might consider suicide. These cycles vary from patient to patient, but often follow the seasons of the year.

Manic Episodes

Manic episodes are episodes in which the manic depressive illness patient suffers racing thoughts, accelerated speech, and thoughts of grandeur. During her manic phases, Patty Duke would often verbally abuse her family members, spend large amounts of money, and occasionally hear voices that did not exist.

Depressive Episodes

Depressive episodes are episodes in which the manic depressive illness patient suffers debilitating depression, often after a manic episode. During her depressive episodes, Patty Duke would often take to her bed for days at a time...