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Abstract
Bipolar disorder affects an estimated 2.4% of the global population.
- The disorder is characterized by recurrent mood episodes, oscillating between mania, depression, and normal mood states.
- Genetic factors contribute significantly to the disorder, with heritability estimates ranging from 70% to 90%.
- Environmental factors, such as sleep restriction and exposure to antidepressants, may trigger episodes.
- Dysfunction in specific brain circuits related to emotion regulation, reward processing, and cognitive control is observed.
- Chemical imbalances in the brain may drive the differing symptoms of mania and depression.
- Recurrent episodes could lead to progressive changes in brain structure, emphasizing the importance of early intervention.
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