What is another name for maniac depressive disorder?

Manic depressive disorder is more commonly known as bipolar disorder. This term reflects the condition's defining feature of experiencing extreme mood swings that include manic highs, where individuals may feel overly energetic and euphoric, and depressive lows, characterized by feelings of sadness and hopelessness. This duality of mood states is central to the diagnosis and understanding of the disorder, hence the name "bipolar," which indicates two poles of mood.

In contrast, major depressive disorder specifically refers to episodes of depression without the manic episodes that characterize bipolar disorder. Generalized anxiety disorder involves excessive worry and anxiety across various contexts but does not encompass the mood fluctuations seen in bipolar disorder. Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves and is distinct from mood disorders, including manic depressive disorder. Understanding these differences is crucial in accurately identifying and treating each condition.