Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depressive, is a chronic mental illness, which is believed to affect as many as 1.6% of the general American population. There is much that we do not know about this difficult psychiatric condition.
For years, scientists have been researching whether a person’s genes could play a contributing factor in the development of bipolar disorder. German researchers recently said that they have managed to identify unique genes that could possibly contribute to the condition.
According to the researchers, it seems that a variety of genes are involved in the development of bipolar disorder, and it’s not just one specific gene that causes the development of the condition. These genes interact with environmental factors in a complex manner to cause symptoms of the condition. A person who suffers from bipolar disorder often suffers from alternate spells of mania and depression, or highs and lows. He may suffer from sleeplessness, insomnia, irritability, and may engage in risky behaviors involving alcohol, drug and sex.
The findings came from an analysis comparing more than 2,200 patients who suffer from bipolar disorder to more than 5, 000 people in the control group without bipolar disorder. The researchers identified five gene regions that were connected to the condition.
Bipolar Disorder and Social Security Disability Benefits
Several types of mental and psychiatric conditions qualify for Social Security disability benefits. For instance, a person who suffers from chronic depression or clinical depression as well severe symptoms of bipolar disorder could under certain circumstances be eligible for Social Security disability benefits.
If you suffer from bipolar disorder and want to want to know more about how you can qualify for benefits, speak to Atlanta Social Security disability benefits lawyer Lisa Siegel. Most people who suffer from bipolar disorder will end up filing a claim for Social Security disability benefits. Unfortunately, all claims are not approved. An attorney can help you determine the viability of your claim and worth through the process of securing disability benefits.