What Research Is Being Done On Bipolar Disorder?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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A new study has found brain abnormalities in people with bipolar disorder. In the largest

MRI

study to date on patients with bipolar disorder, a global consortium published new research showing that people with the condition have differences in the brain regions that control inhibition and emotion.

Is bipolar scientifically proven?

Fact: Bipolar disorder is

a treatable brain disorder that is real

and can cause a lot of suffering, especially if it is not well managed. Individuals cannot just snap out of it!

What causes bipolar disorder research?

Genetics: Some research suggests that

people with certain genes are more

likely to develop bipolar disorder. Research also shows that people who have a parent or sibling with bipolar disorder have an increased chance of having the disorder themselves. Many genes are involved, and no one gene can cause the disorder.

What is new with bipolar disorder?

New genes linked with bipolar disorder.

Researchers have identified 20 new genetic associations with bipolar disorder. Nine significantly enriched gene sets were revealed, including regulation of

insulin secretion

and endocannabinoid signaling.

Is there hope for bipolar disorder?


Bipolar disorder is not curable

, but there are many treatments and strategies that a person can use to manage their symptoms. Without treatment, bipolar disorder may cause unusual mood episodes. People with the condition may alternate between high periods, called manic episodes, and low periods, or depressive episodes.

Can bipolar go away?

Most of the time, bipolar disorder develops or starts during late adolescence (teen years) or early adulthood. Occasionally, bipolar symptoms can appear in children. Although the symptoms come and go, bipolar disorder usually

requires lifetime treatment and does not go away on its own

.

Can someone with bipolar live without medication?

Adults who experience severe bipolar disorder

will likely have to remain medicated their whole life

. However, it’s common for people to go off course with their medications or even stop them entirely.

What is the root cause of bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is widely believed to be the result of

chemical imbalances in the brain

. The chemicals responsible for controlling the brain’s functions are called neurotransmitters, and include noradrenaline, serotonin and dopamine.

Does Bipolar get worse as you get older?


Bipolar may worsen with age or over time if this condition is left untreated

. As time goes on, a person may experience episodes that are more severe and more frequent than when symptoms first appeared.

How can I beat bipolar without medication?

  1. Be An Active Participant In Your Treatment. …
  2. Go To Therapy. …
  3. Closely Observe Your Mood and Symptoms. …
  4. Don’t Isolate Yourself. …
  5. Develop a Routine. …
  6. Focus on Diet and Exercise. …
  7. Reduce Your Stress. …
  8. Avoid Drugs and Alcohol.

Is bipolar a disability?

Bipolar disorder is

considered a disability under the ADA

, just like blindness or multiple sclerosis. You may also qualify for Social Security benefits if you can’t work.

How a person with bipolar thinks?

Bipolar disorder can cause your mood to swing from an extreme high to an extreme low. Manic symptoms can include

increased energy, excitement

, impulsive behaviour, and agitation. Depressive symptoms can include lack of energy, feeling worthless, low self-esteem and suicidal thoughts.

Is Bipolar caused by trauma?

People who

experience traumatic events are at higher risk for developing bipolar disorder

. Childhood factors such as sexual or physical abuse, neglect, the death of a parent, or other traumatic events can increase the risk of bipolar disorder later in life.

Can a bipolar person truly love?

Absolutely. Can someone with bipolar disorder have a normal relationship? With work from both you and your partner,

yes

. When someone you love has bipolar disorder, their symptoms can be overwhelming at times.

What should you not say to someone with bipolar?

  • “You’re Just Overreacting Again”
  • “Anything That Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger”
  • “Everybody Has Mood Swings Sometimes”
  • “Everyone Is a Little Bipolar Sometimes”
  • “You Are Psycho”
  • “You’re Acting Like a Maniac”
  • “I Wish I Was Manic so I Could Get Things Done”

Is bipolar inherited from the mother or father?

Bipolar

disorder is frequently inherited

, with genetic factors accounting for approximately 80% of the cause of the condition. Bipolar disorder is the most likely psychiatric disorder to be passed down from family. If one parent has bipolar disorder, there’s a 10% chance that their child will develop the illness.

James Park
Author
James Park
Dr. James Park is a medical doctor and health expert with a focus on disease prevention and wellness. He has written several publications on nutrition and fitness, and has been featured in various health magazines. Dr. Park's evidence-based approach to health will help you make informed decisions about your well-being.