Unfortunately only about1/3 of those will be diagnosed and receive help.  If you do not look for help than it is very hard to find a cure.  Many Americans are hesitant to confront a disease that is categorized as a mental illness.  They do not want to be stereotyped as one who must be out of their mind.  It’s very complex when a disease impacts the brain.  The stigma of a diagnosis is a hard pill to swallow.  But having this disease isn’t a sign of personal weakness.  It does not mean that you are a nut case.  You have a condition like any other medical condition.  It can be treated.  First it has to be identified. 

The causes of all forms of depression, including manic depression, are still being examined in the medical profession.  It has been shown that depression can be brought on by many possibilities.  It is known that biological, genetic, and environmental factors have to be taken into consideration.  We know that it seems to be caused by a chemical imbalance on the brain.  We also know that stress can play a major role in the advent of depression.  Every day we confront events in life that cause us stress.  It can be problems at work, in our relationships with those we love or facing the reality of trying to survive week to week.  Depression does not play favorites.  It can affect the rich and the poor.  It is not racist.  No color or nationality is free from this illness.

There are similar symptoms no matter the type of depression.  Dramatic shifts in personality and up and down mood swings are some.  Insomnia is another symptom for depression.  Helpless feelings, or feelings that the future holds no hope are signs.  When everyday life becomes a chore, that’s depression.  But people with depression have a light at the end of the tunnel.  You can find help and treatment of manic depression.  There are medicines both prescribed and natural that can offer a cure.  There are also medical professionals that can help your illness through ‘talk therapy’.  There are also many support groups that will help you deal with the disease.  The first step in the cure is seeking the assistance.