Correct spelling for the English word "manicdepressions" is [mˌanɪkdɪpɹˈɛʃənz], [mˌanɪkdɪpɹˈɛʃənz], [m_ˌa_n_ɪ_k_d_ɪ_p_ɹ_ˈɛ_ʃ_ə_n_z] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Manic depression, also known as bipolar disorder, is a psychiatric disorder characterized by intense mood swings that alternate between periods of mania and episodes of depression. It is a chronic condition that affects the individual's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. The term "manic depression" is often used interchangeably with "bipolar disorder," although the latter is now the preferred term in the medical community.
During manic episodes, individuals experience an elevated mood, increased energy levels, and feelings of euphoria that may result in impulsive behavior and poor judgment. They may have difficulty sleeping, engage in excessive talking, and experience racing thoughts. Manic episodes can lead to heightened creativity and productivity, but they can also be accompanied by irritability, aggression, and even psychosis in severe cases.
Conversely, episodes of depression are characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities. Individuals may experience a lack of energy, disrupted sleep patterns, changes in appetite, and suicidal thoughts. Depression associated with bipolar disorder can be severe and have a significant impact on the person's daily functioning.
The exact cause of manic depression is not fully understood, but it is likely influenced by a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Effective treatment typically involves a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle modifications to manage and stabilize mood fluctuations.
The term "manic depression" (now known as bipolar disorder) has complex etymology.
The word "manic" originates from the Greek word "manikos", which means "affected by the god of frenzied inspiration, madness, or madness resulting from possession". is derived from "mania", meaning "madness" or "insanity". In ancient Greek and Roman mythology, mania was associated with the madness experienced under the influence of the god Dionysus/Bacchus.
The second part of the word, "depression", has Latin roots. comes from the Latin word "depressio", which means "a pressing down" or "lowering". The term initially referred to the act of pressing something down physically but later came to be associated with feelings of sadness or low spirits.
The term "manic depression" was first used in the English language in the late 19th century.