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Cause of Manic Depression

Manic depression is a mental disorder that affects hundreds of thousands of Americans each year. In the United States, it is estimated that nearly 1 percent of the population suffer from at least a minor form of manic depression. This fact is supported by studies conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA).

  1. Genetics

    • According to the APA, there have been many advancements in determining that manic depression is partially genetic. Although there is no evidence to show that a particular gene causes depression, the disease seems to be hereditary.

    Neurotransmitters

    • The American Medical Association has shown that elevated levels of neurotransmitters seem to indicate a likelihood of manic depression.

    Brain Disorders

    • Basic brain disorders seem to be one of the leading causes of manic depression, and can be prevalent in the cortisol secretions, a stress hormone.

    Viruses

    • Herpes simplex 2 and the Borna virus have both been shown to have side effects that can trigger manic depression, and mania in general.

    Life Cycle Changes

    • According to research by the American Psychological Association, people who have problems with sleeping or staying awake may suffer an elevated risk of developing manic depression. The suprachiasmatic nucleus regulates the human biological "clock," and can be affected by mania.

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