Is Bipolar a real physical mental illness?
From NHS Direct: The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown. However, it is thought that a complex mix of physical, environmental, and social factors are involved. Bipolar disorder seems to run in families with around 10-15% of the nearest relatives of people with the disorder, also having the condition. Although bipolar disorder is not caused by stress, stressful situations can trigger episodes of mania or depression in those with the condition. For example, physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, the breakdown of a relationship, or the loss of a loved one. These kinds of events can cause episodes of depression throughout a persons life. Also, physical illness can sometimes bring on periods of depression. Bipolar disorder may also be triggered by overwhelming problems in everyday life, such as problems to do with money, work, and relationships. Research has found that there are changes to the brains chemistry during phases of mania and depression. Hormone levels and chemicals that t
