Alain Amzallag, M. Sc.
Fifty five years of “mentally” flavored childhood, studies, profession and family life were permeated by the author’s courage and hope. This guide/book depicts the author’s journey from Casablanca, McGill University (Montréal, Canada), Cornell University / Sloan-Kettering Institute, Rockefeller University (N.Y.C.), during which finding a “cure for cancer” was his driving force and obsession. In 1979, his Bipolar Affective Disorder flared up again; and this guide/book provides Hope and Insight to persons afflicted with M.D.I. (Manic-Depressive Illness) by displaying the struggle, the coping and the perception from within.
It is the ultimate intent and hope of the author that his work will be helpful to those wishing to heighten their awareness of this illness. G-d Bless!
Alain was born in Casablanca. He “purports” to be the “spiritual son” of Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. Kidding aside, in 1965 he moves to Montréal and his Scientific/Medical studies take him from McGill University through Cornell University Medical College / Sloan-Kettering Institute to Rockefeller University in N.Y.C. In 1974, Alain falls ill with an episode of Bipolar Affective Disorder (M.D.I.) and this guide/book’s intent is to convey an understanding of M.D.I. as well as a message of hope since Manic-Depressive Illness can be managed to a satisfactory extent. Back in Montréal, Alain undertakes a brilliant eighteen year career as a Sales Representative with Canadian Life Technologies Inc., and he is blessed with four talented and wonderful children
In Mental Illness: A regional handbook for families there is a meaningful and informative paragraph on Affective Disorders which I am transcribing below for the reader’s benefit and edification:
Affective disorders or mood disorders include depression and bipolar affective disorder (manic-depressive illness). These are common psychiatric problems and affect five percent of the adult population at any given time. The essential characteristic is a disturbance in mood. Bipolar or manic-depressive illness is characterized by cycles of depression and/or mania. Manic symptoms may include the following: boundless energy, enthusiasm, and need for activity; rapid loud disorganized speech; short temper and argumentativeness; involvement in activities which have painful consequences such as shopping sprees, reckless driving, and unwise business investments; delusional thinking. When depressed the person may have difficulty sleeping; lose interest in daily activities; lose his appetite; suffer feelings of worthlessness, guilt or hopelessness; exhibit feelings of sadness; be unable to concentrate; experience extreme irritability.
Major depression (described above) should not be confused with reactive depression or the “Blues”. Reactive depression, sometimes called Situational Affective Disorder, is a temporary condition triggered by life problems. Should this condition persist, the affected person should consult a doctor to find out if it is becoming a major depression.
