Bipolar Causes
…neuroscience research has moved beyond any simple notion of a “chemical imbalance” as the cause of psychiatric illnesses. The most sophisticated, modern theories posit that psychiatric illness is caused by a complex, often cyclical interaction of genetics, biology, psychology, environment, and social factors…
We know that a person’s genetic make-up plays a major role in bipolar disorder. So, if one of two identical twins has bipolar disorder, there is better than a 40% chance that the other twin will develop the illness, even if the twins are reared in different homes. But note that the figure is not 100%–so there must be other factors involved in the development of bipolar disorder, besides your genes…
Modern theories of bipolar disorder hold that abnormal genes lead to abnormal communication between various inter-linked regions of the brain—so-called “neurocircuits”—which in turn increases the likelihood of profound mood swings…
So, you ask—is it still all a matter of “biology”? Not at all—the person’s environment certainly matters. A major stressor may sometimes trigger a depressive or manic episode. And, if a child with early-onset bipolar disorder is raised in an abusive or unloving home, or is exposed to many traumas, this is likely to increase the risk of mood swings in later life…On the other hand, in my experience, a supportive social and family environment can improve the outcome of a family member’s bipolar disorder…
Finally…there is evidence that how the person thinks and reasons makes a difference. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy and family-focused therapy may reduce the risk of relapse, in bipolar disorder. And so, with appropriate support, the person with bipolar disorder can take some control of her illness–and maybe even improve its course– by learning more adaptive ways of thinking.
Doctor, Is My Mood Disorder Due to a Chemical Imbalance? by Ronald Pies, M.D.
