Bipolar Disorder Research Paper

684 Words3 Pages

Bipolar 1 disorder is a diagnosis that is usually given to an individual that has experienced at least one manic episode. A manic episode is generally a period of time, at least a week, where the individual has an elevated, expansive, or irritated mood, usually capable of making rash decisions that could have serious consequences on their life. An individual with Bipolar disorder can feel elevated and high one week, then extremely depressed and low the next. These episodes can last anywhere from days to months, and can effect how an individual functions in their daily lives. Throughout this paper, we will discuss the history of Bipolar Disorder and what we know about it, and the different triggers that stimulate a manic or depressive episode. …show more content…

There have been multiple studies on bipolar disorder and results have shown that can run in families, and if one of your parents has it you have a high chance of developing it too. Signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder don’t usually show up until the later teenage years and usually require a traumatic event to onset or trigger the disorder. It’s not uncommon for an individual with symptoms of the disorder to go undiagnosed or even unnoticed. In a study conducted by the Netherlands Mental Health Survey and Incidence Study (NEMESIS), they claimed “Only a minority (22.5 %) recognized that they had experienced a (hypo)manic episode and only 17.5 % had consulted a health professional for a (hypo)manic episode. Only 12.5 % of the respondents reported having received a diagnosis of bipolar disorder” (Nolen, Vollebergh, Regeer, & Kupka, 2015). Treatment for bipolar disorder usually includes medications, therapy, and therapeutic support through family or friends. The disorder is also believed to be effected by the chemicals the brain releases in response to the world and interactions around us; these chemicals are noradrenaline, serotonin, and dopamine. Now that we know a little about the history of the disorder and how it works, you’re probably wondering how our everyday lives can trigger an episode, or what factors contribute to the development of the

Open Document