Manic-depression or bipolar disorder is a misunderstood mental illness that affects at least one in 100 Americans, researchers say.

A manic-depressive -- as Cape Girardeau's Lisa Huey thinks her son Clayton was -- alternates between feelings of extreme well-being and extreme depression. Although the illness might occur at any age, many people between ages 25 and 44 often experience its onset.

The feeling of extreme well-being, called mania, is characterized by heightened moods with exaggerated optimism and self-confidence, said Deborah Bullwinkel, program director for the Depressive-Manic Depressive Association of Chicago.

People experiencing mania will exhibit a decreased need for sleep, grandiose delusion, excessive irritability, aggressive behavior and increased physical and mental activity. They will often race in their speech, be reckless in their behavior and show poor judgment, Bullwinkel said.

The manic stage can last hours, days, weeks, even months, but soon gives way to the depression stage.

"Some say they feel the depressive side coming, others say it crashes on them," Bullwinkel said.

Symptoms of the depression include prolonged sadness or unexplained crying spells; significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns; pessimism and indifference; loss of energy and persistent lethargy; feelings of guilt and worthlessness; inability to concentrate; social withdrawal; unexplained aches and pains; and recurring thoughts of death or suicide.

"Some people describe the depression as being lost in a black hole," Bullwinkel said.

Even though manic-depression affects about 2.5 million Americans -- 1 percent of the U.S. population -- there is still a stigma attached to the illness.

Despite the disease's stigma, there is hope, Bullwinkel said. Medical treatment is available with the use of mood-stabilizing drugs, such as lithium.

In addition, support groups can help people with the illness and their families understand and cope with the disease.

"A big part of recovery is being a part of a support group," Bullwinkel said.

The Depressive-Manic-Depressive Association, established in 1986, has evolved from one such small patient support group into a national organization with 275 chapters and support groups. One support group is in Cape Girardeau.

DMDA Southeast Missouri can be reached at 339-0111. The national organization may be reached at (800) 826-3632 or at their Internet site, www.ndmda.org.