Diathesis-Stress Model

Diathesis-Stress Model

Combination of genetic variation and stress leading to depression

Diathesis

Genes controlling serotonin activity, variation may produce lower levels

Stress

Relationship break up or family death leading to depression

Bipolar Disorders

Characterized by wide swings in mood from deep depression to wild elation

Mania

Emotional state of extreme excitement, inflated self-esteem, racing thoughts, excessive involvement in pleasurable activities

Manic episode

At least one week of abnormally elevated mood and 3 other symptoms

Hypomanic episode

Mild manic symptoms lasting 4 days, causing less impairment

Bipolar 1

Full manic episodes typically alternating with depression, at least 1 manic or mixed episode

Bipolar 2

Hypomanic episodes alternating with depression, never had a manic episode, at least 1 hypomanic episode and 1 major depressive episode

Who develops bipolar disorders

No sex or race/ethnicity preference, onset typically late adolescence to early adulthood

Biological Etiology of Bipolar

Genetic influences, brain abnormalities in amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus, electrochemical activity imbalance

Limbic Networks

Includes prefrontal cortex and amygdala, responsible for perception and generation of emotional states

Treatment of Bipolar Disorders

Biological treatments at different stages, lithium for mood stabilization, adjunctive psychotherapy for stress management and medication compliance

Psychoeducation

Part of adjunctive psychotherapy, educating patients about their condition

Medication compliance

Part of adjunctive psychotherapy, ensuring patients take prescribed medication

Stress management

Part of adjunctive psychotherapy, techniques to reduce stress levels

Reducing negative interactions

Part of adjunctive psychotherapy, addressing criticism and hostility in families