What is Bipolar mood disorder? Bipolar disorders, formerly called manic depression, are brain disorders that cause unusual mood swings which include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).

These mood swings can affect daily functioning, sleep, energy, activity, judgment, behaviour and the ability to think clearly.

Episodes of mood swings may occur rarely or multiple times a year.

Diagnosis:

There are three types of bipolar disorder. All three types involve clear changes in mood, energy, and activity levels. These moods range from periods of extremely “up,” elated, irritable, or energized behaviour (known as manic episodes) to very “down,” sad, indifferent, or hopeless periods (known as depressive episodes). Less severe manic periods are known as hypomanic episodes.



People can experience both manic and depressive symptoms in the same episode. This kind of episode is called an episode with mixed features. People experiencing an episode with mixed features may feel very sad, empty, or hopeless, while, at the same, time feeling extremely energized.

Bipolar disorder is typically diagnosed during late adolescence (teen years) or early adulthood. Occasionally, bipolar symptoms can appear in children. Bipolar disorder can also first appear during a woman’s pregnancy or following childbirth.
Definitions Manic episode:

A manic episode is a period of at least one week when a person is very high spirited or irritable in an extreme way most of the day for most days, has more energy than usual and experiences at least three of the following, showing a change in behaviour: The changes are significant and clear to friends and family. Symptoms are severe enough to cause dysfunction and problems with work, family or social activities and responsibilities. Symptoms of a manic episode may require a person to get hospital care to stay safe. The average age for a first manic episode is 18, but it can start anytime from early childhood to later adulthood.

Hypomanic episode:

A hypomanic episode is similar to a manic episode but the symptoms are less severe and need only last for four days in a row. Hypomanic symptoms do not lead to the major problems that mania often causes and the person is still able to function.

Major Depressive Episode:

A major depressive episode includes symptoms that are severe enough to cause noticeable difficulty in day-to-day activities, such as work, school, social activities or relationships. An episode includes five or more of these symptoms:
What causes BMD? Researchers are studying the possible causes of bipolar disorder. Most agree that there is no single cause and it is likely that many factors contribute to a person’s chance of having the illness.

Risk factors

Factors that may increase the risk of developing bipolar disorder or act as a trigger for the first episode include:
Complications Left untreated, bipolar disorder can result in serious problems that affect every area of your life, such as:
Co-occurring conditions If you have bipolar disorder, you may also have another health condition that needs to be treated along with bipolar disorder. Some conditions can worsen bipolar disorder symptoms or make treatment less successful. Examples include:
Treatment Proper diagnosis and treatment can help people with bipolar disorder lead healthy and active lives. Talking with a doctor is the first step.

Mental health care providers usually diagnose bipolar disorder based on a person’s symptoms, lifetime history, experiences, and, in some cases, family history. Accurate diagnosis in youth is particularly important.

Medications

Certain medications can help manage symptoms of bipolar disorder. Some people may need to try several different medications and work with their health care provider before finding medications that work best.

Medications generally used to treat bipolar disorder include mood stabilizers and second-generation (“atypical”) antipsychotics. Treatment plans may also include medications that target sleep or anxiety. Health care providers often prescribe antidepressant medication to treat depressive episodes in bipolar disorder, combining the antidepressant with a mood stabilizer to prevent triggering a manic episode.

People taking medication should: Avoid stopping a medication without talking to a health care provider first. Suddenly stopping a medication may lead to a “rebound” or worsening of bipolar disorder symptoms

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy can be an effective part of the treatment plan for people with bipolar disorder. Psychotherapy is a term for a variety of treatment techniques that aim to help a person identify and change troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. It can provide support, education, and guidance to people with bipolar disorder and their families.

Other Treatment Options

Some people may find other treatments helpful in managing their bipolar symptoms, including:
  1. Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): ECT is a brain stimulation procedure that can help people get relief from severe symptoms of bipolar disorder. With modern ECT, a person usually goes through a series of treatment sessions over several weeks. ECT is delivered under general anaesthesia and is safe. It can be effective in treating severe depressive and manic episodes, which occur most often when medication and psychotherapy are not effective or are not safe for a particular patient. ECT can also be effective when a rapid response is needed, as in the case of suicide risk or catatonia (a state of unresponsiveness).

  2. Regular Exercise: Regular aerobic exercise, such as jogging, brisk walking, swimming, or bicycling, helps with depression and anxiety, promotes better sleep, and is healthy for your heart and brain. There is also some evidence that anaerobic exercise such as weightlifting, yoga, and Pilates can be helpful. Check with your health care provider before you start a new exercise regimen.

  3. Keeping a Life Chart: Even with proper treatment, mood changes can occur. Treatment is more effective when a patient and health care provider work together and talk openly about concerns and choices. Keeping a life chart that records daily mood symptoms, treatments, sleep patterns, and life events can help patients and health care providers track and treat bipolar disorder over time. Patients can easily share data collected via smartphone apps – including self-reports, self- ratings, and activity data – with their health care providers and therapists.


When to get emergency help

Suicidal thoughts and behaviour are common among people with bipolar disorder. If you have thoughts of hurting yourself, call your local emergency number immediately, go to an emergency room, or confide in a trusted relative or friend.

If you have a loved one who is in danger of suicide or has made a suicide attempt, make sure someone stays with that person. Call your local emergency number immediately. Or, if you think you can do so safely, take the person to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, but there are ways to help make it easier for yourself, a friend, or a loved one.
Prevention There's no sure way to prevent bipolar disorder. However, getting treatment at the earliest sign of a mental health disorder can help prevent bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions from worsening.

If you've been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, some strategies can help prevent minor symptoms from becoming full-blown episodes of mania or depression:
Alzheimer’s Disease Forgetting things is a normal part of getting older and something we will all experience. However, when forgetfulness starts to disrupt a person’s lifestyle or change their normal behaviour, it can sometimes be a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Receiving a diagnosis and experiencing the first symptoms of AD can be a distressing and difficult situation for both the person with the disease as well as for the carer. However, it is important to stay positive and realise that with proper information, treatment, planning and routines, living with AD can be manageable.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive illness that causes cell changes in the parts of the brain that deal with memory, language, perception and behaviour. Initial symptoms of AD include difficulty remembering, misplacing objects and a lack of concentration. Emotional symptoms such as moodiness, restlessness or depression are also common, and behavioural disturbances such as agitation and aggression can also become increasingly noticeable. Unlike the forgetfulness typical of old age, Alzheimer’s is a disease that can be diagnosed by a doctor using both physiological and cognitive tests, as well as brain imaging techniques.

As the disease progresses, the diagnosed person and his/her carer will find handling the activities of daily living more and more difficult. Having more information is essential for coping with the disease, as it will help to know what to expect and how to prepare for changes in lifestyle.

How common is AD?
Dementia is an umbrella term for a number of mental disorder that affects memory, thought processes and behaviour. AD is the most common type of dementia. Worldwide, around 50 million people have dementia, and there are nearly 10 million new cases every year.

What is the cause of AD?
The actual cause of AD has not yet been found. Current knowledge indicates that a progressive loss of brain cells is related to the formation of abnormal ‘plaques’ of insoluble protein fragments in and around the cells. Another characteristic sign of AD is the presence of ‘tangles’ within the brain cells, formed by abnormal twists of tau, a vital protein in healthy cells. Although these formations may be harmless by themselves, they may activate some kind of defence mechanism in the body that causes cell degeneration in the affected areas. In fact, it is highly likely that AD is not caused by any single factor, but by a number of factors that affect each person differently.

Dementia may be associated with Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease or certain infectious diseases. Damage to the brain from physical trauma, metabolic disorders, or toxins may also influence development of the disease.

How does AD affect the brain?
Alzheimer’s disease causes cell damage in brain cells with eventual total loss of the affected cells. This damage occurs in parts of the brain that control memory, thought and language. It is a progressive disease, which means that as more brain cells become affected over time, more symptoms will appear.

Who is affected?
Getting older appears to be the most decisive cause of AD, but other factors such as gender and genes may also increase the risk of developing the disease. In the majority of cases (95%), the disease develops in people aged 65 years and older, which means that as people live longer and longer, the number of people with the disease will increase.

The disease occurs across ethnic groups, social class and gender, although it is slightly more common in women.

A small percentage of people develop the disease at an earlier age; between 35 and 60 years of age. With this ‘early-onset’ AD, there is thought to be a link with genetics, as cases tend to cluster within certain families.

Getting a diagnosis
AD is diagnosed by a doctor using both physiological and cognitive tests, as well as brain imaging techniques in certain cases. Symptoms for the different forms of dementia may be very similar to those of AD, so careful attention to symptoms described by family members will help to get an accurate diagnosis and early. During the diagnosis and afterwards, those involved will need both physical and emotional support from relatives and friends. Whether or not the final diagnosis is AD, getting a professional opinion and the treatment needed will help all involved to cope.

What changes will take place? Alzheimer’s disease affects people in different ways at different stages. The first symptoms that are usually noticed are memory loss and forgetfulness. As time goes on, other abilities may be affected which vary from person to person. From a clinical point of view, the symptoms of AD can be divided into three main categories:

Cognitive: Symptoms that affect the ability to understand, memory and language

Changes in cognition:
Often the first signs of AD, cognitive symptoms are those that affect non-emotional mental processes such as reasoning, memory and judgment. In the early stages, the person with the disease may be aware of a decline in their cognitive abilities, which can lead to depression and/or anxiety.

Cognitive symptoms include: The symptoms of Alzheimer’s will affect both the person diagnosed with AD and the people around them by posing challenges to everyday life. That’s why it’s important to seek and adhere to treatment as soon as possible and start to create ways of making life easier. The value of any improvement in symptoms will have a positive effect on quality of life for all concerned.

Behavioural: Symptoms that affect mood and behaviour

Changes in behaviour:
One of the most distressing aspects of AD for family and carers are the changes in behaviour, which occur as the disease affects different parts of the brain. When someone you love behaves in an unusual way or appears to change personality, it can be very difficult to come to terms with.

Behavioural symptoms include: Many of these behavioural changes will appear to affect the person’s overall personality, which can be particularly distressing for family and friends. Some people with the disease may eventually become very aggressive and appear unkind and accusatory. Often these symptoms can be relieved with treatment. It is essential to remember that it is the disease that is causing these changes; the person inside is still the same and is not behaving this way on purpose. Despite thesecomplicated symptoms, the ability to express feelings is often impaired in patients with AD. Someone with AD might still be able to share joy, anger, fear and most importantly love.

Functional: Symptoms that affect the ability to perform daily activities

Changes in ability to function:
AD will also cause difficulties in the way the person with the disease functions in terms of performing basic daily activities. Undertaking tasks such as personal grooming and household chores will therefore become increasingly demanding for the individual with AD, as a result, there will be an increased need for care.

Functional symptoms include: Some of these difficulties are associated with memory problems; the person might simply forget to take care of everyday practical tasks. There may also be a problem with understanding the order in which chores are performed. Over time, the disease may also affect the patient’s ability to move in a coordinated way and many daily activities may become physically awkward.
How is Alzheimer’s treated? There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, there are several treatments that can ease or slow the development of certain symptoms. Even small improvements in specific symptoms can have a great effect on the ability to undertake everyday activities. An early diagnosis means that treatment can be started as soon as possible, helping to improve the quality of everyday life for both the individual with the disease and those around them.

What are the medical treatments?

Medical treatment for AD falls into two main categories:
How are these medical treatments taken?

These treatments are taken orally as tablets and can be easily taken every day at home. It is essential to stick to the prescribed dose and keep in contact with the doctor to get the best effects of treatment. As the person taking the medication may suffer from memory problems, it is important that someone else checks that the medication is being taken regularly and according to the instructions. A journal can help keep track of treatment given.

Getting the right dose

It is normal for a person to be started on a low dose of medication that is then gradually increased by their doctor until the required level or ‘maintenance dose’ is reached. A minimum period, during which cognitive, functional and behavioural status is monitored, should elapse before a decision regarding the efficacy of the treatment is made. Response to the treatment should not be judged on the basis of monitoring change in only one of the above domains, as symptoms vary from person to person, so does the response to these treatments.

What about alternative treatments?

Substances such as Ginkgo biloba and Vitamin E are thought by some people to have some value in treating AD. However, it is essential that all options are discussed with your doctor before taking any alternative medications, as there maybe interactions with the prescribed medicines.

Treating symptoms associated with AD

Other medical treatments may also be prescribed to alleviate symptoms associated with the disease such as anxiety and depression. These treatments may help by improving specific symptoms and helping to retain and/or increase the quality of life for the person with AD and carer.
What kind of care is needed? Initially, it may be possible for the person with AD to retain a fairly independent life. As time goes on and more symptoms develop, it may become necessary for another person to help with certain issues such as medication, financial matters and daily activities. Eventually the person with the disease may require full-time care, which will be difficult for one person to cope with.

The type of care will also change over time. Initially, the person may need assistance with remembering details such as names, dates, words, directions, and where things have been placed. Daily activities such as cooking, cleaning and shopping may also require assistance, as may washing and grooming. Changes in behaviour such as increased aggression or irritability can make caring more and more difficult. As symptoms progress the physical side of the illness becomes apparent and help may be needed with walking, toileting and other activities. At this point, outside help may be required. Eventually a residential home where the person with AD can receive around-the-clock care may be the best option.

Medical professionals and care workers can help identify what type of help is necessary and available for each individual situation and may be able to provide contact details. In addition, Alzheimer’s disease/Dementia associations and help-groups often offer this kind of information.

Providing care

Throughout the illness, the carer of the person with AD may face his or her own emotional and physical challenges as the disease symptoms progress. It may help to have some outside support; carers should try and recognise their own limits and feel able to ask for as much help as they need, in the form of home visits from professionals or respite care in a day centre or nursing home. Sharing problems, seeking advice and making time for individual needs will help the carer to manage the range of emotions that may accompany the task of caring.

What legal issues should be dealt with?

From a legal point of view, it is helpful if the person with AD and their family make arrangements such as a will, appointment of a power of attorney and other issues early on. This will ensure that the individual with the disease has as much authority over their future as possible, while they retain their independence.
Where can more information be found? Refer to the website under resources for important local contact information on organisations that have information about the disease and support groups as well as services available in your area. Across the globe, there are many associations that can help with information and support for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s Disease International is an umbrella organisation of Alzheimer’s associations around the world.
Downloads Lundbeck Alzheimers Coping With Caring

Lundbeck understanding Alzheimers English
What is depression? Depression is a severely disabling condition that has a profound effect on all aspects of a sufferer's life. In a World Health Organisation (WHO) report from 2015, the proportion of the global population with depression is estimated to be 4.4%. Suicide accounted for close to 1.5% of all deaths worldwide, bringing it into the top 20 leading causes of death. Suicide occurs throughout the lifespan and was the second leading cause of death amoung 15-29 year olds globally. In South Africa, the percentage of the population with depression and anxiety disorders, was 4.6%. Depression is ranked by the WHO as the single largest contributor to global disability (7.5% of all years lived with disability). Depression is also a major contributor to suicide deaths, which number close to 800 000 per year. 1

Prevalence rates vary by age, peaking in older adulthood (above 7.5% among females aged 55-74 years, and above 5.5% among males). Depression also occurs in children and adolescents below the age of 15 years, but at a lower level than older groups. 1

Depression impacts on the mood or feelings of affected persons: symptoms range in terms of their severity (from mild to severe) and duration (from months to years) These disorders are diagnosable health conditions, and are distinct from feelings of sadness, stress or fear that anyone can experience from time to time in their lives. Depression can be long lasting or recurrent, substantially impairing an individual's ability to function at work or school or cope with daily life. At its most severe, depression can lead to suicide 1. Depression is an illness that can seriously impair all aspects of a person's life, including personal relationships, performance at work and enjoyment of activities. 2

Cognitive dysfunction (impaired concentration, memory, decision making) is a common feature of depression that can be easily identified in patients with depression, but it often overlooked and may persist once other symptoms have resolved. Symptoms of cognitive dysfunction are predicative of poor outcome if they are not fully treated and are associated with marked effects on the patients work performance.
Symptoms
Diagnosis According to the Fifth Edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), five or more of the symptoms must be present during the same 2 week time period that represents changes in functioning. At least one symptom is either a depressed mood or loss of interest. 4
Treatment The best treatment for depression is usually a combination of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy.
What can you expect Most people with moderate or severe depression benefit from antidepressants, but not everybody does. You may respond to 1 antidepressant but not to another, and you may need to try 2 or more treatments before you find one that works for you. When you start taking antidepressants, you should see your GP or specialist every week or 2 for at least 4 weeks to assess how well they're working. If they're working, you'll need to continue taking them for at least 6 months after your symptoms have eased. If you have had episodes of depression in the past, you may need to continue to take antidepressants for up to 5 years or more. Antidepressants are not addictive, but you may get some withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking them suddenly or you miss a dose. It's very important to take your antidepressants as prescribed, even if you start to feel better. If you stop taking them too soon, your depression could return. 5
What is anxiety? Occasional anxiety is an expected part of life. You might feel anxious when faced with a problem at work, before taking a test or before making an important decision.1

Anxiety disorders involve more than temporary worry or fear. For a person with an anxiety disorder, the anxiety does not go away and can get worse over time. The symptoms can interfere with daily activities such as job performance, schoolwork and relationships.1
How common are anxiety disorders?2, 3 Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions in the U.S. They affect about 40 million Americans. They happen to nearly 30% of adults at some point. Anxiety disorders most often begin in childhood, adolescence or early adulthood.2

Anxiety disorders occur more often in women.2

Up to 33.7% of the population are affected by an anxiety disorder during their lifetime.3
What causes anxiety disorders? Anxiety disorders are like other forms of mental illness. They don’t come from personal weakness, character flaws or problems with upbringing and researchers don’t know exactly what causes anxiety disorders. They suspect a combination of factors plays a role:
Symptoms2 Symptoms vary depending on the type of anxiety disorder you have. General symptoms of an anxiety disorder include:

Physical symptoms: Emotional symptoms: Behavioural symptoms:
Diagnosis2 if you have symptoms of an anxiety disorder, talk to your Healthcare Provider. Your Healthcare Provider will start with a complete medical history and physical examination.

There are no lab tests or scans that can diagnose anxiety disorders. But your Healthcare Provider may run some of these tests to rule out physical conditions that may be causing symptoms.

Who can diagnose anxiety disorders?2

If your Healthcare Provider finds no signs of physical illness, they may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist. These Healthcare Professionals specialize in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. They may use specially designed interview and assessment tools to assess if you have an anxiety disorder.

Typically, the Healthcare Provider bases a diagnosis on:
Healthcare Providers may also consult the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The American Psychiatric Association publishes the DSM-5. It’s the standard reference manual for diagnosing mental illnesses.
Types of anxiety disorders1 There are several types of anxiety disorders, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and various phobia-related disorders.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

People with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) display excessive anxiety or worry, most days for at least 6 months, about several things such as personal health, work, social interactions and everyday routine life circumstances. The fear and anxiety can cause significant problems in areas of their life, such as social interactions, school and work.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder symptoms include:

Panic Disorder

People with Panic Disorder have recurrent unexpected panic attacks. Panic attacks are sudden periods of intense fear that occur suddenly and reach their peak within minutes. Attacks can occur unexpectedly or can be brought on by a trigger, such as a feared object or situation.

During a panic attack, people may experience:
People with Panic Disorder often worry about when the next attack will happen and actively try to prevent future attacks by avoiding places, situations or behaviours they associate with panic attacks. Worry about panic attacks and the effort spent trying to avoid attacks, cause significant problems in various areas of the person’s life and may include the development of agoraphobia (see below).

Phobia-related disorders

A phobia is an intense fear of—or aversion to—specific objects or situations. Although it is realistic to be anxious in some circumstances, the fear people with phobias feel is out of proportion to the actual danger caused by the situation or object.

People with a phobia:
Types of phobias and phobia-related disorders:

Specific Phobias (sometimes called simple phobias):
As the name suggests, people who have a specific phobia have an intense fear of or feel intense anxiety about specific types of objects or situations. Some examples of specific phobias include the fear of:
Agoraphobia:
People with agoraphobia have an intense fear of two or more of the following situations:
People with agoraphobia often avoid these situations, in part because they think being able to leave might be difficult or impossible in the event they have panic-like reactions or other embarrassing symptoms. In the most severe form of agoraphobia an individual can become housebound.

Social Anxiety Disorder (previously called social phobia)
People with Social Anxiety Disorder have a general intense fear of, or anxiety toward, social or performance situations. They worry that actions or behaviours associated with their anxiety will be negatively evaluated by others, causing them to feel embarrassed. This worry often causes people with social anxiety to avoid social situations. Social Anxiety Disorder can manifest in a range of situations, such as within the workplace or the school environment.

Separation Anxiety Disorder
Separation anxiety is often thought of as something that only children deal with; however, adults can also be diagnosed with Separation Anxiety Disorder. People who have Separation Anxiety Disorder have fears about being parted from people to whom they are attached. They often worry that some sort of harm or something untoward will happen to their attachment figures while they are separated. This fear leads them to avoid being separated from their attachment figures and to avoid being alone. People with separation anxiety may have nightmares about being separated from attachment figures or experience physical symptoms when separation occurs or is anticipated.











Treatment and therapies1 Anxiety disorders are generally treated with psychotherapy, medication or both. There are many ways to treat anxiety and people should work with their doctor to choose the treatment that is best for them.

Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy or “talk therapy” can help people with anxiety disorders. To be effective, psychotherapy must be directed at the person’s specific anxieties and tailored to his or her needs.

Medication
Medication does not cure anxiety disorders but can help relieve symptoms. Medication for anxiety is prescribed by doctors, such as a psychiatrist or primary care provider. The most common classes of medications used to combat anxiety disorders are anti-anxiety drugs (such as benzodiazepines), antidepressants and beta-blockers.1
Choosing the Right Medication1

Some types of medications may work better for specific types of anxiety disorders, so people should work closely with their doctor to identify which medication is best for them. Certain substances such as caffeine, some over-the-counter cold medicines, illicit drugs and herbal supplements may aggravate the symptoms of anxiety disorders or interact with prescribed medication. Patients should talk to their doctor, so they can learn which substances are safe and which to avoid.

Choosing the right medication, medication dose and treatment plan should be done under an expert’s care and should be based on a person’s needs and their medical situation. Your doctor may try several medicines before finding the right one.

You and your doctor should discuss:1














References
  1. National Institute of Mental health. February 2021. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders/index.shtml
  2. Cleveland clinic. February 2021. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9536anxietydisorders
  3. Bandelow et al. Epidemiology of anxiety disorders in the 21st century. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience. (2015) 17(3): 327–335
  4. WebMD. Anxiety Disorders. February 2021. https://www.webmd.com/anxietypanic/guide/anxiety-disorders#1
Downloads Support groups

Depression booklet
Support Groups
What is schizophrenia? Schizophrenia is a brain illness that appears in many different forms involving thoughts, emotions, senses, behaviour and movement 1.

Schizophrenia is not a 'split/multiple personality' 3 , nor is it a result of a bad upbringing, weakness or laziness.

The illness begins in the late teens to mid-30's. Women have a slightly later onset (average age late-twenties) than men (early to mid-twenties) 1.

There are no racial or gender differences 1,3.
What causes schizophrenia? We don't know the exact cause of schizophrenia. It seems there are a number of factors that may combine to cause the illness 1.

These factors include:
What are the symptoms of schizophrenia? Some symptoms may come and go while others may always be there. They may also vary in severity over the course of the illness.

Positive symptoms 2:
Negative symptoms 2:
How can I get help?
How can I stay well?
{{ sectionHeading(i) }}
X
ˆ
ˇ
[Close]

Website Terms and Conditions



By using the website, you agree to be bound by the Website Terms and Conditions. All terms and conditions are material. Please review them carefully before proceeding. The Website Terms and Conditions apply to the website in its entirety including all services offered by or through the website.


COPYRIGHT NOTICE

The contents of this website (including without limitation all articles, statements, text, images, logos, and design) are © 2020 Lundbeck (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd (Lundbeck). All rights reserved.


  1. Definitions

    1. "IP address" means a unique address that identifies a device on the Internet or a local network.

    2. "Personal information" has the meaning assigned to it in the Protection of Personal Information Act (Act 4 of 2013), and "information" has a similar meaning unless the context requires otherwise, and includes any information that identifies or relates specifically to you such as your name, identity number, contact details and information you use to log onto the website.

    3. "Lundbeck" means Lundbeck (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd (Lundbeck).

    4. "Traffic data" means any data processed for the purpose of conveyance of a communication on an electronic communications network in respect of that communication and includes data relating to the routing, duration or time of a communication.

    5. "Web browser" means an application used to access and view this website such as Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Safari or any other equivalent.

    6. "Website" means the internet website with the address https://www.lundbeck.com/za/ or any website with a URL that is validly registered to Lundbeck.

    7. "You" / "your" means the user of the website and the services offered by Lundbeck on or through the website.


  1. Purpose of the Website

The main purpose of the website is to provide relevant information about Lundbeck to health care practitioners and the public.


  1. Conditions of Access and Use

    1. To avoid any confusion, you agree that the Website Terms and Conditions apply to your use of the website, any third-party website licensed to Lundbeck and any information accessed via the website.

    2. If you use the website, you must keep your access details (including your username and password) confidential and not allow other people to use them. You accept full responsibility for all activities that occur under your access details or password and accept responsibility for sharing your username and password. Any use of your access details shall be regarded as if you were the person using such information.

    3. Materials from the website may be copied and distributed on a limited basis for non-commercial purposes only, provided that any material copied remains intact and that all copies include the following notice in a clearly visible position: "Copyright © 2020 Lundbeck (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. All rights reserved." These materials are for personal use only. Any copying or redistribution for commercial purposes or for compensation of any kind requires prior written permission from Lundbeck.

    4. By using the website, you guarantee that you will not and you will not allow third parties on your behalf to

      1. make and distribute copies of the website;

      2. attempt to copy, reproduce, alter, modify, reverse engineer, disassemble, decompile, transfer, exchange or translate the website; or

      3. create derivative works of the website of any kind whatsoever.

    5. You acknowledge that the terms of the agreement with your Internet provider will continue to apply when using the website. As a result, you may be charged by the Internet provider for access to network connection services for the duration of the connection while accessing the website or any such third-party charges as may arise. You accept responsibility for any such charges that arise.

    6. If you are not the payer of the device being used to access the website, you will be assumed to have received permission from the payer for accessing and using the website.


  1. Information Protection

    1. The website contains confidential information, which is the property of Lundbeck and/or its data subjects and/or its business partners. Unauthorised disclosure and/or use of this information may incur civil or criminal liability.

    2. Any of your personal information available on the website and which you supply to Lundbeck when using the website will be used by Lundbeck in accordance with its Privacy Statement and subject to legislation.

    3. You guarantee that all information provided by you on or via the website is true, accurate, current and correct and you undertake to update the information as and when required.

    4. All information that you provide to Lundbeck may be stored electronically and with third parties, which parties are bound by strict levels of confidentiality. These electronic records shall be proof of the information unless you can prove otherwise.

    5. Lundbeck takes all reasonable steps to protect your personal information and maintain confidentiality, including by making use of encryption technology. However, Lundbeck cannot guarantee the security or integrity of any information you transmit to it online and you agree that you do so at your own risk.


  1. Intellectual Property

    1. All trademarks, copyright, database and other intellectual property rights of any nature in the website together with the underlying software code as well as any content made available on the website (e.g. text, graphics, logos, images, etc.) are owned either directly by Lundbeck or by Lundbeck's licensors unless expressly stated otherwise.

    2. You do not obtain any trademark, copyright, database or any other intellectual property right of any nature or licence by using the website.

    3. You are not granted any license or right to use any trademark without Lundbeck's prior written permission and/or that of any third party.


  1. Breach

If you breach the Website Terms and Conditions, Lundbeck shall have the right to claim damages of whatsoever nature from you, including special, incidental, consequential or indirect damages. In addition, Lundbeck shall have the right to claim loss of profits and loss of business and to recover all legal costs on a scale as between attorney and own client from you.


  1. Termination

    1. Lundbeck may in its sole discretion terminate your use of the website at any time by giving notice of termination to you, where this is possible.

    2. You agree that the following actions shall constitute material breaches of the Website Terms and Conditions that shall result in the termination of your access to the website:

      1. signing in as, or pretending to be another person;

      2. transmitting material that violates, or could violate, the intellectual property rights or the privacy of others;

      3. using interactive services in a way that is intended to harm, or could result in harm to you or to other users of the website; or

      4. gathering information about others without obtaining prior written consent.

    3. Upon termination of use as contemplated in this clause 7, the rights granted to you by the Website Terms and Conditions shall terminate.


  1. Disclaimers and Limitation of Liability

    1. Lundbeck tries to ensure that the most sophisticated technology protects the information on the website. However, Lundbeck cannot be held responsible for any consequences that may result from the unlawful breach of copyright or unlawful dissemination of information by third parties copying information off the website. If you suspect a breach or where a breach may have taken place and this comes to your knowledge, please contact Lundbeck or the webmaster as soon as possible so that the problem can be addressed.

    2. The website and all information, content, tools and materials are provided by Lundbeck "as is" and on an "as available" basis without warranty of any kind.

    3. Lundbeck does not guarantee the operation of the website or the information content, tools or materials on the website.

    4. While Lundbeck makes every effort to ensure that the content and information on the website is complete, accurate and up-to-date, it makes no guarantee about the suitability of the products and services and provides no representation or warranty, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, correctness and completeness of information contained on the website.

    5. Lundbeck does not guarantee that the website, information, content, tools or materials included on the website, Lundbeck's servers or any electronic communications sent by it are free from viruses or other harmful components.

    6. The views and opinions expressed on this website, links or attachments hereto do not necessarily reflect the views and/or opinions of Lundbeck. Regardless of the vast professional knowledge and scientific expertise in the field of pharmaceutical products related to the central nervous system that Lundbeck possesses, it cannot inspect all information to determine the truthfulness, accuracy, reliability, completeness or relevance thereof.

    7. Although Lundbeck is fully committed to providing you with the best possible service, it shall not be responsible for:

      1. any interrupted, delayed or failed transmission, storage or delivery of information due to a power failure, equipment or software malfunction, natural disasters, fire, labour unrest, epidemics, pandemics, or any other cause beyond the reasonable control of Lundbeck, or

      2. any inaccurate, incomplete or inadequate information supplied by you and obtainable from the website.

    8. The website and all of its component elements, including text, graphics, images, hyperlinks and other materials supplied by third parties, are for general educational purposes only and do not take the place of professional medical advice. To the extent that clinical information may be provided on the website, it is based on best practice and/or current recommendations and guidelines, which may change from time to time. The information provided does not replace the advice of a registered health care practitioner. You should not discontinue any treatment you may be receiving on the basis of information reflected on this website without first consulting your health care practitioner and you should seek professional advice should any symptoms you may be experiencing persist.

    9. You agree to use the website at your own risk.

    10. Lundbeck, its directors, contractors and website contributors shall not be liable to you or any other person or entity for, and you agree to indemnify them against, any claim or damages of any kind, including for direct, indirect, special, incidental, punitive and/or consequential damages as well as loss of profit or the like whether or not in the contemplation of the parties, whether based on breach of contract, delict (including negligence), product liability or otherwise, arising from -

      1. your use of the website or from any information, content, tools or materials included on or otherwise made available to you through the website, including any damage or alteration to your equipment, including but not limited to computer equipment, handheld devices or mobile telephones;

      2. for any decision taken or acted upon as a result of reliance on the information or philosophies contained or expressed on the website;

      3. your actions or omissions that result in a breach of the Website Terms and Conditions;

      4. any links to other websites from the website. You also acknowledge that Lundbeck cannot control the content of or the products and services offered on those websites; and/or

      5. a denial of access to the website should Lundbeck have reason to believe that you are conducting activities that are illegal, abusive, would affect the integrity of the website or place Lundbeck in disrepute, if possible.


  1. Website Analytics

You may visit the website without providing any personal information. The website servers will in such instances collect the IP address you used to access the website, but not the e-mail address or any other personal identifiable information. The information on IP addresses is aggregated to measure the number of visits, the average time spent on the website, pages viewed, etc. Lundbeck analyses non-identifiable traffic data to improve our services, via a third-party programme, Google Analytics.

Lundbeck may collect, hold and use statistical information about website visits to help us improve the website. Such information includes -

The traffic data is aggregated and is not personally identifiable. Our website analysis will respect any "does not track" setting you may have set on your web browser.


  1. Cookies

Lundbeck uses industry-wide technologies such as "cookies" to collect information about the use of the website, your preferences and past browsing history. "Cookies" refer to information that is sent from the website to your hard drive, where it is saved. This will allow Lundbeck to improve its services and your experience when you use the website again. The cookies do not collect any personal information about you. The information obtained will be shared with persons or entities to the extent necessary for them to administer and improve the website on our behalf.



  1. Jurisdiction

The laws of the Republic of South Africa shall govern these Website Terms and Conditions.


  1. Amendments to the Website Terms and Conditions

Lundbeck may in its sole discretion amend the Website Terms and Conditions from time to time without prior notice. The latest Website Terms and Conditions available on the website shall at all times take precedence over any other version of these Terms. It is your responsibility to make sure you are satisfied with any changes before continuing to use the website.


  1. Further Information

If you have questions about these Website Terms and Conditions, please contact us at +27 11 699 1600 south_africa@lundbeck.com.



[Close]
[Close]

The information in this Cookie Policy is provided to you in an open and transparent way, so that you can see how cookies are used to enrich your visitor experience and make an informed choice to allow their usage. However, if you wish to delete cookies, this can be done via settings in your web browser. Below you can read more about our use of cookies.

Cookies
When you visit this website your online device will automatically receive one or several cookies, which are transferred from this website to your internet browser.

What is a cookie?
A cookie is a small text file. It does not contain any personal information and is not able to collect information.  Two types of cookies can be used, "session-only" and "persistent". "Session-only" cookies are deleted when you end your browser session. "Persistent cookies" remain on your device for the time period set in the cookie after which time they delete themselves. However, these cookies may be renewed every time you visit the website.

Cookie types
It is common to distinguish between first-party cookies and-third party cookies. First-party cookies are allocated to the website that you visit while third-party cookies come from a third-party, such as a web analytics program.

Why do we use cookies?
We use cookies to assess content usage and to compile statistics about the use of the website in order to improve the user experience. This data may be used to define where the visitors come from, what content is viewed and for how long. This information cannot be used to identify a visitor as an individual.  Both first-party and third-party cookies may be used on this website.

How long will cookies be stored on my computer?
Cookie lifetime may vary. Some cookies will disappear when you close the browser while others exist for longer. For more information on cookie expiry see the cookie declaration.

Can I still visit the website if the cookie-function is disabled?
Yes. Should you have cookies disabled on your online device, you will continue to have the same access to the website content as with cookies enabled. However, some functions such as surveys and tools might operate with reduced functionality or not at all.

How to avoid or delete a cookie?
Most browsers accept cookies by default. You can alter your browser settings to not accept cookies or delete the cookies from your computer. Different web browsers may use different methods for managing cookies. Please follow the instructions below, from the most common web browser manufacturers directly, to configure your browser settings*.
Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE)
Google Chrome
Safari
Firefox

* These links are to third party sites, over which we have no control - no liability can be claimed if they are inaccurate.

The cookie declaration is updated monthly by Cookie Information. If you have any questions please write to info@cookieinformation.dk. 

[Close]
[Close]

The website (https://www.mysupport.co.za/) is owned and provided by:
Lundbeck SA- PTY LTD
Office A1002, Knightsbridge, 33 Sloane Street, Bryanston
South Africa

Company registration number: 1989/001987/07
Telephone number: +2711 699 1600

The following describes how we handle personal data when you sign-up to receive newsletters from Lundbeck via MySupport resource center as well as certain legal information regarding our practices for this website.

1. Processing of Personal Data

As a provider of this website and the MySupport resource center, Lundbeck is a data controller of any personal data collected. Lundbeck is firmly committed to protecting the privacy of information we may collect from our online visitors.

In processing, personal data, Lundbeck will always comply with applicable legislation.

Personal identifiable data, purposes and legal basis

Lundbeck collects personally identifiable data in the following situations:

We collect and process the following types of personal data about you via the website: We process your personal data for the following purpose: We process your personal data on the following legal basis:
When you sign up to receive the MySupport newsletter via the website (or on paper e.g. on a congress) we collect your name, email address, profession, country, zip code, place of practice. We will also register information on whether you consent to receive news letters from Lundbeck.

We process this personal data for the purpose of direct marketing, i.e. providing you with e-mail newsletters if you have consented to.

We ask you about your profession to ensure you are an HCP because the content of the e-mails (which contain solely non-promotional material) are most relevant for this segment and because local legislation and industry guidelines may require is to do so .

 The legal basis is your consent.
When you use the MySupport website we collect personal data via cookies such as type of browser, your IP-address, including your network location and information about your computer. Necessary cookies: Necessary cookies help make a website usable by enabling basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website. The website cannot function properly without these cookies.
Functional cookies: Functional cookies enable a website to remember information that changes the way the website behaves or looks, like your preferred language or the region that you are in.
Statistics cookies: Statistic cookies help website owners to understand how visitors interact with websites by collecting and reporting information.
Marketing cookies: Marketing cookies are used to track visitors across websites. The intention is to display ads that are relevant and engaging for the individual user and thereby more valuable for publishers and third-party advertisers.
 		 The legal basis is consent.
The legal basis for necessary cookies is Lundbeck's legitimate interest in providing the website and functionalities to users.
 

When we collect personal data directly from you when you sign up to receive the MySupport newsletter, you provide the personal data voluntarily. You are not obligated to provide the information to us. The consequences of not providing the personal data are that we cannot send you our newsletter.

When we collect personal data via cookies, the source is your device.

Recipients of personal data

Lundbeck uses data processors (IT service providers and hosting services) in relation to the website. These third party provides will be obligated to safeguard the confidentiality of your data and to take adequate technical and organizational measures to protect your data against accidental or unlawful destruction, loss or alteration, unauthorized disclosure or abuse, or other unlawful processing.

For cookies, please see our cookie policy for more information.

Storage of Data (Data Retention)

Lundbeck will keep your personal data only for as long as reasonably necessary for the purposes for which it was collected or received or to comply with any applicable legal or ethical reporting or document retention requirements.

Your rights as a data subject

Lundbeck has taken all necessary and adequate steps to protect your personal data and ensure your rights as a data subject.
You have certain rights described below. Please note that limitations may apply to your ability to exercise these rights, for example, when your right to obtain the information is found to be overwritten by essential considerations of private interests.

Right of access
You have the right to request access to the personal data Lundbeck processes about you.
Lundbeck must provide a copy of the personal data undergoing processing as a starting point free of charge or by electronic means, if the request has been submitted in a commonly used electronic form.

Right to rectification
You have the right to rectification of inaccurate personal data concerning you, including completion of incomplete personal data.
Right to erasure (right to be forgotten)
You have the right to the erasure of the personal data concerning you.

Right to restriction
You have the right to restrict Lundbeck's processing of personal data concerning you.

Right to data portability
Where processing is based on a consent or a contract and the processing is carried out by automated means, you have the right to receive the personal data concerning you in a structured, commonly used and machine-readable format. You have the right to transmit this personal data to a third party without hindrance from Lundbeck, if technically possible.

Object

You have the right to object, on grounds relating to your particular situation, at any time to processing of personal data concerning you which is based on legitimate interests as legal basis for the processing, including profiling based on this provision. Where you have exercised this right to object, Lundbeck must no longer process the personal data unless Lundbeck demonstrates compelling legitimate grounds for the processing, which override your interests, rights and freedoms, or if processing is necessary for the establishment, exercise or defence of legal claims.

Where your personal data are processed for direct marketing purposes, you have the right to object at any time to processing of personal data concerning you for such marketing, which includes profiling to the extent that it is related to such direct marketing. Where you object to processing for direct marketing purposes, Lundbeck must no longer process the personal data for such purposes.

If processing of your personal data is based on your consent, you may withdraw your consent at any time. Please note that this does not affect Lundbeck's processing of your personal data prior to the withdrawal of your consent.
If you want to exercise any of your rights as described above or have any question to that, please contact the Lundbeck Data Protection Officer (see contact information below)

Lundbeck Data Protection Officer

If you have any questions regarding Lundbeck processing of personal data, please contact the Lundbeck Data Protection Officer:

H. Lundbeck A/S
Attn: Data protection officer
Ottiliavej 9
2500 Valby
Denmark
 

Email address: dataprivacy@lundbeck.com

If you contact our Data Protection Officer, H. Lundbeck A/S will process the personal data you provide us with in your request with the purpose of processing and responding to your request. Please read our privacy notification regarding this processing activity on Lundbeck.com.

2. Direct communication

Any questions, comments, suggestions, etc. that you may forward or transmit via the website will - to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law - become and remain the property of Lundbeck and will be treated as non-confidential, non-proprietary information that Lundbeck may use at its own discretion.

3. Disclaimer of liability

Lundbeck ensures that reasonable care is being taken to ensure that the website content is accurate and up-to-date, but all information is provided ‘as is' and Lundbeck makes no warranties or representations of any kind as to accuracy, sequence, timeliness or completeness of the website content and may at any time at its sole discretion change or replace the information on the website and discontinue distributing the site without prior notice. The website may contain information on diseases and treatments: this information is intended for general guidance only and must never be a substitute for advice provided by a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional. To the extent permitted by mandatory law, Lundbeck shall not be liable for any direct, incidental, consequential, indirect or punitive damages arising out of access to or use of any content on this site, including viruses, regardless of the accuracy or completeness of any such content. If you suspect you have a health problem, we strongly recommend that you contact your physician.

4. Links to other websites

The website may contain links to third party websites. Lundbeck disclaims any control over, relationship with, or endorsement of these sites and shall not be liable for any damages or injuries arising from the content of such sites. Links to other websites are provided only as a convenience and Lundbeck encourages that you read these third party websites' Terms of Use and Privacy Statements.

5. Intellectual property rights

The content of the website is subject to copyright protection and other intellectual property rights. The company names, trade names, logos and all product names are trademarks owned by Lundbeck. Any misuse of these trademarks is expressly forbidden. The content of the website may not be copied other than for personal and non-commercial use, with all copyright or other proprietary notices retained. Except as expressly provided above, it is not permitted to copy, display, download, modify, reproduce or retransmit any information on this website without the express written consent of Lundbeck.

6. Children

This website is not intended or designed to attract children under the age of 18 years. We do not knowingly collect personally identifiable data from any person we know to be under the age of 18 years.

7. Governing law and venue

This disclaimer and the contents of this site shall be governed and interpreted by Danish law without regard to its conflict of law rules. Any dispute arising out of or in relation to this disclaimer shall, if it cannot be solved amicably, be decided exclusively by the Danish Courts in Copenhagen, Denmark.

8. Changes and questions

Any changes to this document will be communicated promptly on this page. If you have any further questions regarding this document or the website in general, please do not hesitate to contact us.

[Close]