The Depressive Side of Manic Depression - Five Ways to Cope with Depression

Depression is not a one size fits all kind of illness. It comes in various sizes and shapes. Each variety has its symptoms and effects. I have had all types of depression—biochemical, situational, and the blues type of depression.

Biochemical depression (unipolar or bipolar) is a genetic, chemical imbalance type of depression and doesn’t require an identifiable stressor, though this often serves as the impetus. My lapses into depression following a manic episode were biochemical. Situational depression, often less virulent than biochemical, can be serious and potent, brought on by a negative life situation (often starting out mild and increasing in intensity). It can be equally as devastating as a biochemical depression. It is a response to a situation that threatens stability. Chronic, low-grade depression known as dysthymia, can be even more insidious and long-lasting. It is often described as “the blues” or “the blahs.” While initially not as impactful as the first two, you are still able to take care of a home and raise children. There is a nagging discontent, a tendency to see the cup as half empty. Its manifestation is often termed being negative. It, too, can turn deadly or contribute to the onset of a deeper despondency. I have had my share of blue days.

I recall a time after a particularly high flying grandiose drama, waking up alone in my apartment to a sense of panic, the loss of my manic high resolving in a sudden drop into nothingness. The crassness of my drop in mood, a crash into the terror of losing touch with life, caused panic; and in that moment I could only foresee my demise. For several hours I was imminently suicidal. Luckily, I was able to pick up the phone and call my sister. After a period of several hours, I regained my emotional footing.

I can only conjecture what would have happened had I not made that phone call. I could not be alone at that moment. It was too overwhelming. When you are that far from a spiritual home, you are filled with hopelessness. Such can be the grip of depression.

Although I still continue to fight depression, I am free of manic episodes and have been for nearly 25 years. Following are ways I have found helpful in coping with depression:

Five Ways to Cope With Depression