Essay Sample on Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder (BD), formerly called manic depression, is a mental health condition of multiple severities that can impair judgment and other things. It consists of extreme mood swings such as depression, hypomania, and mania. Each episode can last mere days, to weeks, and sometimes even months. Depression is defined as "feelings of severe despondency and dejection." Its symptoms can include but are not limited to; a marked, noticeable loss of interest or pleasure in most (or all) activities; insomnia or hypersomnia; restlessness or slowed behavior; tiredness and fatigue; feelings of worthlessness or self-doubt; decreased focus, indecisiveness; contemplating self-harm or suicide. On the opposite end of the spectrum, mania is defined as "great excitement or euphoria, delusions, and overactivity." Some things that a manic person may experience may include, but are not limited to; wired and jumpy; increased activity and agitation; exaggerated sense of well-being (euphoria); distractibility; impaired decision making; talkativeness; decreased need for sleep. These mood swings may affect energy, behavior, judgment, and communication. They can occur rarely or multiple times a year. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong disorder. Following a treatment plan including medication and psychotherapy can help people manage bipolar disorder, but there is no cure.
Before assessing and analyzing the possible cause(s) of bipolar disorder, it's important to understand what separates it from borderline personality disorder (BPD). BD is defined by long-lasting alternating periods of mania and depression that are not caused by interpersonal conflicts. Contrary to bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder is caused by interpersonal conflicts (such as disagreement, separation, and rejection). It's accompanied by changes in sleep, energy, speech, and thinking. BPD involves abrupt mood swings caused by environmental factors. Relationships, self-image issues, and moods are also all possible triggers (caused by interactions with other people). People with borderline personality disorder often struggle with self-harm due to accentuated emotions. They often experience chaotic, unstable relationships with others.Most people with BPD have endured childhood trauma. They often struggle with addictions, anxiety, and eating disorders.Scientists know that borderline personality disorder is often trauma inflicted; caused by emotional, physical, and/or sexual abuse. BD and BPD are similar disorders in multiple aspects. Scientists have been working to define the effects of environmental factors and of genetics in bipolar disorder.
"Wise Counsel'' is a podcast hosted and produced by Dr. David Van Nuys, Ph.D. On this radio talk show, Dr. Van Nuys interviews one or more people involved with mental health and wellness; this is whether they be professional as counselors, therapists, physicians, researchers, or if they are patients/family members of patients. In 2008, he interviewed Lorna Hyde Graev, where they talked about her bipolar disorder. In this interview, she tells us that she was diagnosed with BD at forty years old. She is described as a successful public relations businesswoman who suffers from bipolar disorder. She is a "mental health advocate" who speaks publicly on mental health issues, illnesses and disorders. She tells us that her mother had bipolar disorder as well. Dr. Van Nuys asks what led to Lorna's diagnosis. She said that she was going through a rough divorce and had recently made the decision to go back to school. She also stated that she took on a lot of other responsibilities in addition. She had a lot of weight on her shoulders and quickly became very stressed. During the interview, Lorna describes her first manic episode. She woke up one morning, unable to move her arms or legs. She grew very agitated. During the interview, Lorna describes her first manic episode. She woke up one morning, unable to move her arms or legs. She was initially panicked and soon grew very agitated. She described it, at the time, as an "outer body experience." She didn't know it yet, but this incidence is called "cycling." It's defined as being a pattern of frequent, distinct episodes in bipolar disorder; in this cycle, she lost control of her own body. Later, Lorna tells us that her mother passed away in 1983. She claims that she felt depressed but the pain was still incomparable to her 1991 cycling episode. After the interview concludes, the audience is left wondering; did Lorna have bipolar disorder because she inherited it from her mother, or because of the stress and trauma she endured?
There is yet no general consensus among scientists about what causes bipolar disorder, though it is scientifically proven that it’s more likely for those who undergo trauma, specifically childhood trauma, to develop bipolar disorder in the long run. Factors such as physical, mental, or sexual abuse can greatly impact the probability of developing BD. Neglect, the death of a parent, and other traumatic events can increase the risk of BD from early childhood. Other events that cause high stress, such as moving homes, losing a job, or experiencing the death of a loved one can also trigger episodes of depression or mania. Lack of sleep is also a factor that increases the risk of an episode. Evidence shows that those who abuse drugs or alcohol are put at a higher risk for developing bipolar disorder. Nicotine is especially proven to have an effect on the development. Not only do drugs and trauma play a role, but so does gender. Though BD affects both men and women equally, women are at least three times more likely to experience (rapid) cycling, (like what Lorna experienced). Women are more likely to experience mixed and depressive episodes than men. Women with bipolar disorder are put at an increased risk of onset or relapse due to hormone fluctuations. Some possible forms of hormone fluctuations include, but are not limited to menstruation, premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Section B.4.5 of the Indiana Academic Standards for Biology Standards Document asks a student to “make and defend a claim based on evidence that inheritable genetic variations may result from: (1) new genetic combinations through meiosis, (2) viable errors occurring during replication, and (3) mutations caused by environmental factors.” Scientists have found patterns in the gene sequence of patients with bipolar disorder. For instance, a study found that if one identical twin had bipolar disorder, there was a two in three chance that the other twin would also have it. After analyzing brain scans, scientists have noticed that people with bipolar disorder appear to have physical differences and changes in their brains. It is still uncertain what significance these changes may have. In addition to that, there is a higher risk factor of BD in people who have a first-degree relative with the condition, such as a parent or sibling. There has been no proven racial predilection with the condition. Some evidence mounts to the contribution of glutamate in bipolar disorder as well as other major depressions. A study of the brain's frontal lobes concluded that glutamate levels were increased in patients with bipolar disorder. Many sources state that genetic factors account for anywhere from 60 to 80 percent of the cause of bipolar disorder. Taking this into consideration, we know that heredity cannot be the only cause of bipolar disorder. If someone in a person’s family has been diagnosed with the disorder, it is not guaranteed that the individual would or would not develop it as well.
Though we remain unsure of what the exact cause of bipolar disorder may be, we can rest assured that both genetics and environmental factors play a role in the development of the condition. There are many ongoing studies about bipolar disorder stationed all around the world, from college to professional research facilities. If you or a family member has shown signs of, or has been diagnosed with, bipolar disorder, it is important to get screened for the condition immediately. It is best to be diagnosed early so that proper treatment and care can be provided. Additionally, practice abstinence from harmful drugs to lower the risk of onset. BD is a very serious condition that can greatly affect the quality of life. If an individual has suffered trauma during childhood leaning into adulthood, it is important for them to keep a keen eye out for the symptoms of bipolar disorder. It could happen to anyone. Whilst confronting symptoms and receiving the proper treatment, it is possible to rise against bipolar disorder and live a happier, healthier life.
