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The emotional brain in youth

Bipolar disorder affects 3% of the general population, with significant functional limitations and high rates of psychiatric hospitalization in children and adolescents. The diagnostic criteria for bipolar I disorder in adolescents include mania, euphoria, and irritability, while mixed episodes are common in this age group.

Mom or dad has bipolar disorder? Keep stress in check

A new study led by Concordia University suggests that children of parents with bipolar disorder are more sensitive to stress due to elevated cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone produced in response to anxiety and was previously found to be higher in these children, but this study is the first to show its role in mood disorders.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateMay 5, 2011

Scientists identify susceptibility factor for bipolar disorder

A new study reveals a previously unrecognized susceptibility factor for bipolar disorder, with genetic variation in the neurocan (NCAN) gene associated with an increased risk. The findings suggest that NCAN variants may disturb neuronal processes in patients with bipolar disorder, leading to cognitive deficits.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 3, 2011

Over-diagnosis of bipolar disorder and disability payments -- a link?

A study from Rhode Island Hospital found that patients over-diagnosed with bipolar disorder were more likely to receive disability payments for a longer period. The researchers propose a link between the two, suggesting that clinicians may over-diagnose bipolar disorder in complex, chronically ill patients seeking secondary gain.

SourceLifespan·JournalThe Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease·DateMay 19, 2010

Proposed diagnostic change not enough to help children currently diagnosed with bipolar disorder

A new pediatric DSM category, Temper Dysregulation Disorder with Dysphoria (TDD), aims to better reflect symptoms of children currently diagnosed with bipolar disorder. However, the authors argue that this change alone is not enough to promote flourishing in troubled children and may even lead to increased medication use.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 19, 2010

Is it really bipolar disorder?

A new study from Rhode Island Hospital has found that a widely-used screening tool for bipolar disorder may incorrectly identify borderline personality disorder. The research team tested the accuracy of the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) and found that it misidentified patients with borderline personality disorder, leading to potent...

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateMar 25, 2010

Faulty body clock may make kids bipolar

Research found four alterations in RORB gene associated with pediatric bipolar disorder, linking circadian rhythm abnormalities to the condition. The study suggests that clock genes may be important candidates for further investigation into bipolar disorder's molecular basis.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateNov 11, 2009

If bipolar disorder is over-diagnosed, what are the actual diagnoses?

A follow-up study found that patients previously diagnosed with bipolar disorder were more likely to be diagnosed with borderline personality disorder or impulse control disorders. The researchers analyzed 82 psychiatric outpatients who received a previous diagnosis of bipolar disorder, which was not confirmed through the Structured Cl...

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateJul 29, 2009

Children of older fathers more likely to have bipolar disorder

A recent study found that children born to older fathers are at higher risk of developing bipolar disorder. The study, which analyzed data from over 13,000 patients with bipolar disorder, suggests that advancing paternal age may be associated with an increased risk of complex neurodevelopmental disorders.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateSep 1, 2008

Is bipolar disorder overdiagnosed?

A new study by Rhode Island Hospital and Brown University researchers found that bipolar disorder is being overdiagnosed, with 43.4% of patients not receiving a valid diagnosis. This can lead to unnecessary medication side effects, highlighting the need for standardized diagnostic methods.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateMay 6, 2008