Trends in Bipolar Disorder Research

Book excerpt: This new volume gathers important research developments dealing with bipolar disorders. In a world permeated with stress, bipolar disorders have become an all too common occurrence. There are millions of people throughout the world suffering from this disorder. Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function. Different from the normal ups and downs, the symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. They can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. The primary psychological factor implicated in the manifestation of bipolar disorder is stressful life events. These can range from a death in the family to the loss of a job, from the birth of a child to a move. Once the disorder is triggered and progresses, 'it seems to develop a life of its own'. The two poles of bipolar disorder are mania and depression.