Theoretical Causes Bipolar disorder is one of the more difficult and less understood mental disorders, as its symptoms manifest in a variety of ways and cause comorbidities that often leave the core issue undiagnosed. The condition causes severe mood shifts in a person, making the handling of life and normal existence difficult. People suffering from bipolar disorder constantly go between the states of depression and mania, which affect their decision-making skills, mood, emotion, and ability to communicate with others. The exact triggers and causes of this disease are unknown, as is the case with many other mental diseases, but it is believed that genetics and a person’s heritage have a large influence. Sometimes the causes are also physical, such as a difference in the composition of the brain. Associated Factors Factors that cause instances of bipolar disorder are varied and can include both internal and external factors. As a disease closely connected with one’s genetics, some of the risk factors are inherent to a person’s body and being. Having a close relative who also suffers from bipolar disorder can put one at a higher risk (Leahy, 2007). A first-degree relative has a high chance of transferring the genes responsible for the disorder to an individual. Furthermore, traumatic events and occurrences can also present a danger to a person suspected of bipolar disorder. The death of a loved one or an instance of abuse can serve as a trigger for the condition. Other types of harmful events and self-detrimental practices can also become a contributing factor to suffering from BD. Such actions as consuming alcohol, drug use, or other types of substance abuse. Pathology Many individual brain regions are connected to the pathology of this condition. Since many of the areas are used by people when experiencing emotions, they are also connected with the occurrences of the disorder. Elevated activity in the amygdala region has been connected with occurrences of BD, as this section of the brain identifies the importance of emotional stimuli (Miklowitz & Johnson, 2006). Hyperactivity of the amygdala was shown to be one of the reasons for the sudden mood swings for those suffering from BD. Areas of the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, are, alternatively underutilized and display diminishing activity (Miklowitz & Johnson, 2006). Treatment Treatment for this condition can be varied, as the condition is lifelong and requires constant monitoring, control, and adjustment to balance high quality of life and effectiveness. Treatment options are consequently primarily focused on managing the symptoms. Medication is oftentimes utilized, in different capacities (Leahy, 2007). To properly control the mood swings and stabilize one’s condition, medication is used. It helps the patient to find a balance between the two extremes. Counseling and treatment programs are also utilized, as they can offer patients both professional help and advice (Leahy, 2007). Specific treatment options to address the co-morbidities of the condition also exist, to address such issues and relationship trouble or substance abuse. Techniques Used in Diagnosis, Care and Research Diagnosis is performed through a variety of procedures