Misdiagnosis of Manic Depression Symptoms

Misdiagnosis of Manic Depression is relatively common with those suffering Bipolar and Manic Depression symptoms. Often someone suffering from a form of Manic Depression is misdiagnosed as having some other form of personality disorder.

One of the main problems that causes misdiagnosis is that it is a relatively uncommon disorder and many doctors are unfamiliar with the disorder. This makes it very important if someone is suspicious that they are exhibiting symptoms of Manic Depression that they seek out an experienced doctor who can make the correct diagnosis and that they understand that it is not an overnight process.

Someone who is in one of the high or ‘manic’ states of Manic Depression will exhibit symptoms similar to those suffering narcissism or histrionic disorders. Manic symptoms can include rage and an inability to sleep further complicating the diagnosis as those with sleep disorders report similar symptoms.

An inability to concentrate and focus is another symptom of Manic Depression which can cause a sufferer to be misdiagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder or some other related disorder. Those related to a sufferer of Manic Depression can perceive you as a different person or personality when in a ‘manic’ state which can lead to a misdiagnosis of Schizophrenia.

The ‘depressive’ or low state of manic depression is also easily misdiagnosed. Sufferers who do not realise or report their ‘manic’ states can be misdiagnosed with clinical depression or another related depression disorder. Knowledge of a  ‘depressive’ state is not enough for a physician to correctly diagnose a case of Manic Depression.

Some people who believe or are suspicious they are afflicted with Manic Depression actually do not have any disorder at all. The names Bipolar Disorder and Manic Depression are becoming more common. This awareness within the general public can lead to people convincing themselves that they are sufferers when in fact they are not. Hormonal imbalances, stress, grief and psychological trauma can all cause symptoms similar to Manic Depression causing some to people to be misdiagnosed with bipolar without actually having the disorder at all.

These problems all contribute to the regular misdiagnosis of Manic Depression symptoms and are the reason why it can take weeks and sometimes months to correctly diagnose a sufferer. When consulting a doctor those that believe they could have the disorder should be open and honest about all symptoms and emotional states that they have experienced and try and seek out a doctor experienced with Manic Depression.