Contrary to what many believe, manic depression is not "serious depression" or "real depression", although it is very serious and real. Mania is the opposite of depression. According to the dictionary, it is "an excessively intense enthusiasm, interest, or desire." A manic-depressive is someone who cycles between mania and depression. It is the same as Bipolar disorder. Manic depression is also known as Bipolar 1 or Bipolar 2. Its a complicated mental problem that is treated with medication.
MANIC DEPRESSION is now called Bi Polar as in 2 poles of mood, lows and highs. I myself am asufferer and hate the WORD MANIC thankfully it now has a much kinder title. Indeed myself and others do have severe depressions. The highs differ and I have hypomania, mild highs. This is a severe illness many loose touch with reality. Depression is the opposite. Try on line for list of symptoms. good luck