Pampering Yourself When You Have Manic Depression
Go ahead! It's alright! Pamper yourself!
If you suffer from manic depression, it's perfectly fine to pamper yourself, especially if you discover you're in a depressive episode.
In fact, there are some wonderful over-the-counter aids based on the alternative health approach of aromatherapy that might even provide that extra something needed to help lift that mood - if only temporarily.
These products are essential oils and depending on their aroma, they're said to have certain effects on your system. There are plenty already on the market. Just search any store that sells bath and body products.
Here are some fragrances you might want to look for if you suffer with manic depression. We've also included a few simple instructions. If you think your particular case may be helped by exposure to aromatherapy, visit a professional aromatherapist. Your local health food store can help you find one near you.
Remember, however, that aromatherapy is no substitute for professional medical care. You should never discontinue your medications for manic depression in favor of aromatherapy or any other alternative health treatment.
Aromatherapy oils can be added to your bathwater to help you alleviate the depressive state of manic depression. You can also use them as a massage oil as well. Some individuals even place them in the reservoir of their humidifier in order to diffuse them throughout the house.
Some of the premixed oils that you can buy off the shelf of a beauty or health food store that may help with manic depression include lavender, rose, clary sage, and bergamot.
The combination of these healing aromas combined with a warm relaxing bath can go a long way to help relieve a depressive episode of your manic depression - even if only for a short time. Use ten drops of these relaxing oils in a bathtub half filled with water. Soak in this mixture for about twenty minutes.
If you prefer to massage these oils into your skin, you'll want to use about 15 drops into an oil that's called carrier. Carrier oils are usually almond, grape seed or sesame oil. You can find these at your local health food store.
Manic depression is also known as bipolar disorder. It's characterized by mood swings that can go from severe depression to euphoric highs. Some individuals experience psychotic symptoms with this illness, such as hallucinations and delusionary thinking. Manic depression needs to be treated by a professional.
