Causes Of Bipolar Disorder

This article looks at possible triggers or causes of the increasingly common mental health condition called bipolar disorder.

If we go by the ‘cause and effect' theory we learned growing up and if we see bipolar disorder as the effect, what on earth would be the cause? The truth of the matter is that no-one really knows. This is in spite of so much research being done to find out why this condition occurs. However, it is still a mystery.

One piece of evidence that has shown up in studies is the fact of there being a chemical imbalance in the brain but then comes the question: what do you think would be the cause of this imbalance? Well, there are theories that it could be genetic or that it could be caused by environmental triggers.

Let's look at chemical imbalance first. There are widely held beliefs that this could be a result of lithium deficiency, dog bites or even osmosis. Many believe it could have its roots in psychological reasons. However, bipolar disorder has been known to run in certain families so we cannot rule out the genetic factor. Geneticists are trying to find the key to unlock this mystery.

On a physical plane, bipolar disorder is a condition that affects the neurotransmitter systems. When the levels of dopamine, norepinephrine or serotonin are low, this could be the result. However, exactly how and why this happens is anyone's guess till now. It is really very hard to read the complex area we call our brain.

Another reason being looked at as a cause is an environmental trigger. Does stress and shock and upsetting events lay the foundation of bipolar disorder or other diseases of the mind? This could be a stressful working atmosphere or the loss of someone close or any kind of traumatic event in the person's life. In some studies, there did seem to be a marked link between such events and the disease.

There's a model that is termed as Diathesis-Stress. This identifies people who are likely to succumb to bipolar disorder. Today, it seems that most of the people who are suffering from this condition seem to be getting it because of the genetic factor as well as the external stress factor combined.

If you are plagued by bipolar disorder, it could well be a combination of genetics and the environment. Today there are great options as far as treatment is concerned and you should take advantage of it. As more and more research and studies are done, the treatment becomes more sure, more skilled and the condition becomes more manageable. The fact remains however that there are a number of people who suffer from this ailment and go through life carrying its disadvantages - without ever getting a satisfactory answer as to why exactly bipolar disorder has hit them.