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Beginners
Your world often seems completely upside down when you eventually (typically after a number of years) receive the diagnosis. For many people, by that time it is not only their health that is in jeopardy. For many of us, financial security may be compromised alongside relationships, employment and even our homes. Here are some ideas that might help you to get back on track. When the condition is well managed, there is every hope of leading a happy and fulfilling life although it may not seem like that just now.
Understand and accept that you have manic depressionThis is probably the most difficult step of all. The best way to recognise the nature of your MD is to speak with others in a similar position. You are especially encouraged to come to group meetings Feel free to contact us for a chat before coming along. You will soon recognise that you are not alone.
If you are not sure whether you (or the person you care for) have this condition, you may want to look at the Bipolar page on our national site for a good description and a self-assessment. The Royal College of Psychiatrists has useful informatiom here.
National MDF also has for sale a number of leaflets and books that will help understanding. Some of these are available at our meetings.
Get the right support networkProfessionals
You will probably have a GP and a psychiatrist. Many people also find the help of a Community Psychiatric Nurse very beneficial as they have longer to spend with you and can also involve your family. You may also have a Social Worker, Psychologist or Occupational Therapist. If you are not sure about your rights to help or are having difficulty negotiating for them, contact Cambridge Independent Adcocacy Service on 01223-218500 or Lifecraft on 01223-566957.
Family and Friends
If available, the help of family and friends can can give you a great advantage in spotting and coping with future episodes. It can be difficult to tell them about your condition. We welcome family and friends at our meetings and are very happy to support them. National MDF also has literature for carers.
Understanding your medicationSome people with MD can manage without medication or only by using it when a crisis looms. This is rare. Most of us regularly use one or more forms of medication. Typically they include Lithium, Carbamazepine, Sodium Valproate or another mood stabiliser. Again National MDF has literature. The best British website (Americans use different names, which can be confusing) is The Norfolk Mental Health Care NHS Trust Pharmacy site.
Organise your timeMany people with MD say that it is vital to structure their time in a positive way. That may range from resuming a busy and active full-time job, taking a degree, having training or attending clubs or therapetic activities. The South Cambs Mental Health website lists organisations you can approach for help and advice.
Learn to manage your conditionBy now you should have become the expert on your own condition. Everyone is different. MDF Group meetings will offer you help to recognise and manage symptoms more effectively. National MDF runs Self-Management Courses in various parts of the country. The techniques of self-management have already improved the quality of life of for many people.
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