Bipolar Disorder and Genetic Predisposition - 1997 Words

Bipolar Disorder: A Case of Bad Genes? December 13, 2011 Abstract Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic depression, is a mood disorder in which a person experiences alternating episodes of both depression and mania. Bipolar disorder affects 1 in 100 people in the world. Throughout history, scientists and physicians have tried to find the exact cause of the disorder, but only in the last 30 years been able to confirm genetics as a culprit. Advances in research have enabled scientists to accurately pinpoint genetic variants that can alter each patient’s reaction to certain medication and treatment methods. Scientists are studying the genetic underpinnings of bipolar disorder in order one day, in the future, to be able to†¦show more content†¦(Altshuler et al., 2010) In some cases, substance abuse has become a way of self-medicating instead of dealing with the side effects of prescribed medications to combat the symptoms of bipolar disorder. The Causes of Bipolar Disorder: A Thousand Years of Theories and Research Throughout history, there have been many ideas and theories on what causes bipolar disorder. Greek physician Hippocrates believed â€Å"dysregulation of four bodily fluids, blood, yellow bile, black bile, and phlegm† (Walden amp; Gruze, 2004) were the cause in the rapid mood change. During the second century, Galen hypothesized that the cause of the disorder began in the brain. Not more than forty years ago, bipolar disorder was believed to be the result of bad parenting. Over the last 120 years, researchers have concluded that the disorder is genetic, although others will argue that genetics is not the only factor. In the 1890’s scientists, used phenomenology to determine genetics was a factor, in the 1930’s they began using twin and adoption studies to further prove their hypothesis of genetic involvement in the development of bipolar disorder. Linkage studies began in the late 1960’s but really transformed with the introduction of molecular markers in genetic mapping twenty years later. Currently researchers are focusing more on genome-wide studies and narrowing down particular variants on different genes. (McMahon, 2007) AlthoughShow MoreRelatedSuicide and the Leading Causes1076 Words   |  5 Pageswere reported in 2010 alone (Facts and Figures, 2014). That number made suicide the 10th leading cause of death in the United States (Facts and Figures, 2014). The staggering number of people committing suicide made me wonder what kind of genetic predisposition some people may have to carry out such an act. People who have relatives who have committed or who have attempted to commit suicide are 50% more likely to attempt suicide (Zai, 2012). There could be a simple explanation for this phenomenonRead MoreSymptoms And Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder Essay1278 Words   |  6 Pages26, 2016 Abstract: Bipolar Disorder Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder; also referred to as manic depressive disorder according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V, 2013). Bipolar disorder is a depressive disorder with manic episodes, it is placed between the chapters on schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders in recognition of their place as a bridge between the two diagnostics in terms of symptomology, family history, and genetics (DSM-V, 2013). ManicRead MoreEssay Bipolar Disorder1447 Words   |  6 PagesBipolar Disorder Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness affects about 1.2 percent of the U.S. population (8). It is defined by fluctuating states of depression and mania throughout ones life. Those who are depressed may be restless, irritable, have slowed thinking or speech, decreased sexual activity, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, suicidal thoughts as well as other changes. Those in a manic state may have increased activity or energy, more thoughts and faster thinkingRead More Mood Disorder Essay1660 Words   |  7 Pages As many as 19 million Americans million are affected by mood disorders ( The two main types of mood disorders are bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder which are described as disturbances in mood, behavior and emotion.â€Å" Bipolar disorder is a complex disorder in which the core feature is pathological disturbance in mood ranging from extreme elation, or mania, to severe depression usually accompanied by disturbances in thinking and behavior, which may include psychotic symptoms, such as delusionsRead MoreBipolar Disorder Essay1129 Words   |  5 Pages Furthermore, inflammation is linked with bipolar disorder and can explain some of the comorbidities such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, that result in decreased life expectancy. Inflammatory molecules are produced in the periphery by immune cells such as helper T cells and macrophages, in response to pathogens or cell damage. The proinflammatory molecules produced in the body can stimulate the microglia and other neuroimmune cells, by entering the brain through regions where the bloodRead MoreAmanda Bynes Psychological Perspective Essay678 Words   |  3 PagesSchizophrenia, and Bipolar Disorder. Finally, after several outrageous months, Bynes was, â€Å"placed under an involuntary hold,† known as the 5150 psychiatric hold, in Los Angeles, California. The UCLA Medical Center came to a conclusion and diagnosed Amanda Bynes with both, a bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Bynes’ disorder can be applicable based on several different perspectives such as the bi ological, and the social cognitive. Schizophrenia is a severe psychological disorder in which the personRead MoreBipolar Disorder : Psychological Trauma And Neurobiological Abnormalities1627 Words   |  7 PagesIn Letters from a Bipolar Mother Alyssa Reyans states, â€Å"bipolar robs you of that which is you. It can take from you the very core of your being and replace it with something that is completely opposite of who and what you truly are.† Individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder are often misdiagnosed because bipolar is such a complex disorder that contains symptoms of other mental illnesses. Bipolar disorder is a debilitating mental illness that consists of multiple different forms, each with theirRead MoreBipolar Disorder ( Bipolar )1010 Words   |  5 PagesIntroduction/Overview of Condition Bipolar Disorder (BD) is a severe mental illness (SMI) characterized by dramatic mood â€Å"swings† between manic and depressed states. In their manic states, individuals experience an abnormally elevated mood characterized by extreme, grandiose gestures and ideas, inflated self-esteem, lack of sleep, constant talking, distractibility, poor judgement, and even aggression (Griggs). Individuals can be characterized as having either a hypomanic episode or a manic episodeRead MoreSocial Services For At Risk Clients1732 Words   |  7 PagesSocial Services for At-Risk Clients: The Case of Alice Doe and her Bipolar Disorder / Substance Abuse Dual Diagnosis The purpose of this report is to create a social services delivery plan for an at-risk client named Alice Doe. Alice has a history of drug abuse yet has been clean and sober for several years. Alice also suffers from bipolar disorder. In recent times, she has experienced setbacks due to the stress created when her daughter and grandchild moved in with her. To make matters evenRead MoreClass Presentation Notes : Bipolar Disorder1384 Words   |  6 PagesBipolar Disorder Class Presentation Notes Define illness: Bipolar disorder, also called manic-depressive illness, is a mental disorder characterised by extreme shifts in mood, as well as fluctuations in energy and activity levels. Someone with bipolar will experience episodes of low mood (major depression) and times of high or elevated mood (mania or hypomania). Bipolar episodes are essentially drastic mood changes, and last at least one week. These episodes can affect a person s thoughts, feelings