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Bipolar Disorder Research

Written by Areesha Hosmer, M.Sc.Medically reviewed by Holly Schiff, Psy.D.

Published on · Updated on

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition in which episodes of mania and depression affect a person’s mood, energy, and ability to function day-to-day. It’s a condition that can be hard to diagnose or treat without the right tools.

As research continues to evolve, scientists are learning more about how bipolar disorder works by studying brain activity, genetics, and environmental factors. From brain chemistry to personalized care, current findings are reshaping how bipolar disorder is approached, offering better tools and new hope for more effective treatment.

\"A

Key takeaways

  • Bipolar disorder research is examining diagnostic delays, symptom subtypes, and genetic and neurological risk factors.
  • Studies of neurotransmitters and the gut-brain connection are exploring possible mechanisms and future treatment targets.
  • Personalized care and emerging digital tools aim to improve early recognition while addressing difficulties that persist between mood episodes.

Research Advancements in Diagnosis and Subtyping

Recent developments in bipolar disorder research are changing how the condition is diagnosed and understood. These findings reflect several critical updates in the field, particularly around early identification, diagnostic precision, and the complexity of clinical presentations.

The Impact of Late Diagnosis

Delays in diagnosing bipolar disorder are still common and can significantly affect long-term outcomes. Many people are initially misdiagnosed with depression or anxiety disorders, leading to inappropriate treatment.

Bipolar disorder can go unrecognized for years, particularly when someone seeks help during depression and earlier hypomania has gone unnoticed. Assessment should consider the pattern of symptoms over time, family history, and possible alternative explanations⁠[1].

Symptom Patterns and Subtypes

An assessment considers several features of a person’s mood history, including:⁠[1]

  • Episode patterns: Mania, hypomania, depression, and mixed features help clinicians understand the course of illness.
  • Rapid cycling: Four or more mood episodes within a year describe this pattern.
  • Changes over time: Shifts in sleep, energy, activity, and functioning are considered alongside the duration and severity of symptoms.

These insights are helping clinicians move away from rigid diagnostic categories and instead recognize bipolar disorder as a spectrum with varying patterns depending on the person.

Data on Risk Factors and Biological Markers

Research suggests that several influences contribute to bipolar disorder, including:⁠[1]

  • Genetics: Many genes may contribute to risk, but no single gene causes bipolar disorder.
  • Experiences: Trauma and stressful events may interact with genetic vulnerability.
  • Brain structure and function: Group-level differences are being studied to better understand the illness and possible treatment responses.

While no single biological marker has yet been validated for routine clinical use, this research builds a foundation for precise future approaches where diagnosis could be guided by individual biological profiles.

Understanding Neurotransmitters in Bipolar Disorder

Research has shown that neurotransmitters, or chemicals in the brain that help cells communicate, play a critical role in bipolar disorder. Current treatments often target these chemical messengers. For this reason, researchers are seeking more precise approaches by looking at the specific role of neurotransmitters in manic and depressive episodes.

The Role of Dopamine in Bipolar Disorder

Research suggests that dopamine, a neurotransmitter tied to motivation and reward, plays a major role in the mood shifts seen in bipolar disorder. This theory, known as the dopamine hypothesis, helps explain why people with bipolar disorder swing between depressive lows and manic highs. The role dopamine plays in bipolar disorder includes the following⁠[2]:

    \n
  • Increased Dopamine in Mania: Manic episodes are linked to a surge in dopamine activity, which can lead to elevated mood, impulsivity, and racing thoughts.
    • \n
  • Decreased Dopamine in Depression: Dopamine levels drop during bipolar depression, contributing to low energy, lack of motivation, and emotional numbness.
    • \n
  • Sensitivity Shift: The brain’s dopamine system may become overly reactive in mania and under-responsive in depression, creating instability in mood regulation.
    • \n

The Role of Glutamate in Bipolar Disorder

Glutamate is a neurotransmitter, or a chemical messenger in the brain that helps cells communicate and stay active⁠[3]. However, too much of it can cause problems. Research shows that people experiencing manic symptoms in bipolar disorder often have elevated glutamate levels in certain parts of the brain.

Research concerning this link may lead to treatments that help regulate glutamate and stabilize mood through the following findings⁠[3]:

    \n
  • Elevated Levels in Mania: People in manic states often show increased glutamate in brain regions like the anterior cingulate cortex, which is connected to emotional processing.
    • \n
  • Impact on Symptoms: Too much glutamate may overstimulate the brain, contributing to racing thoughts, impulsivity, and mood shifts.
    • \n

Insights on the Gut-Brain Connection in Bipolar Disorder

The gut microbiome plays a larger role in brain health than previously believed. In bipolar disorder, researchers have found that the communication between the gut, brain, and immune system, known as the microbiota-gut-brain axis, may influence not just mood, but also how the body responds to stress and medication⁠[4].

Key findings from research on this topic include⁠[4]:

    \n
  • Differences in Gut Bacteria: People with bipolar disorder often show imbalances in gut microbiota, particularly a reduction in anti-inflammatory strains. This imbalance may contribute to inflammation, which has been linked to mood instability.
    • \n
  • Immune System Involvement: Changes in gut bacteria may activate immune responses that influence brain chemistry. This could play a role in triggering or maintaining episodes.
    • \n
  • Impact on Medication Response: Some evidence suggests that gut bacteria can affect how the body metabolizes psychiatric medications, possibly influencing their effectiveness or side effects.
    • \n

These insights suggest that supporting gut health may help regulate mood in people with bipolar disorder. While clinical applications are still being developed, approaches like personalized nutrition, probiotics, and anti-inflammatory strategies are being explored as future treatment options.

Data on How Bipolar Disorder Affects Daily Life

Bipolar disorder often leads to lasting disruptions in work, relationships, and daily responsibilities. In a U.S. community sample, research found that people living with bipolar disorder experienced more impairment across multiple life domains compared to those without the condition.

According to the study, common areas of impact includes the following domains⁠[5]:

    \n
  • Work Performance: People with bipolar disorder reported missing work. They also said they had reduced productivity and increased job instability.
    • \n
  • Social Life: People with the condition said they experienced more conflict, withdrawal, and difficulty sustaining long-term relationships.
    • \n
  • Family Roles: The data showed that people with bipolar disorder faced challenges with parenting and household responsibilities. This was particularly noted among women in the sample.
    • \n
  • Legal and Financial Strain: The study found that legal and financial issues particularly impacted young people and men. 
    • \n

Notably, the impact was not limited to periods of active illness. Many participants reported lingering symptoms and instability that disrupted their ability to function even when they were not in a full mood episode.

Overall Functional Difficulties with Bipolar Disorder

Support needs can continue between mood episodes. Ongoing treatment and monitoring should take account of difficulties such as:⁠[1]

  • Continuing mood symptoms and their effect on daily activities.
  • Changes in sleep, energy, and routines.
  • Medication side effects that should be discussed with the prescriber.
  • Co-occurring conditions, including anxiety or substance misuse.

These findings emphasize the need for long-term care strategies that extend beyond mood management. Treatment plans that also support cognitive health, daily structure, and quality of life are essential for sustainable recovery.

Personalized Bipolar Disorder Care

Bipolar disorder treatment is shifting toward a more personalized approach. Instead of relying only on symptoms, researchers are exploring biological clues to guide care more effectively.

Alongside insights on how genetics can inform one’s risk of bipolar disorder, studies are also examining how a person’s genes may affect their response to specific medications.

In addition, biomarkers such as hormone or protein levels could help predict and guide treatment outcomes⁠[6]. These tools help clinicians understand the condition at a deeper level, making it possible to match people with treatments that work better for them.

Subject matter expert

\"\"

Simone Hoermann Ph.D.

Personality disorders, anxiety, and depression

View profile

The Role of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to support more proactive and individualized treatment. By analyzing daily patterns and behaviors, AI tools can help monitor symptoms and guide decision-making in real time.

According to research, some of the ways in which AI is supporting bipolar disorder treatment include⁠[7]:

    \n
  • Early Relapse Detection: AI can track mood, sleep, and activity changes to alert users and healthcare providers before a full episode begins.
    • \n
  • Individualized Care: Data-driven insights help adjust treatment plans based on each person’s needs and patterns.
    • \n
  • Clinical Decision Support: AI helps clinicians identify the most effective treatment options with greater precision.
    • \n

Though still developing, these tools are opening new doors in how bipolar disorder is managed.

Future of Bipolar Disorder Research

Research on bipolar disorder is reshaping how we understand and approach the condition. Scientific studies, such as those on brain activity, neurotransmitters, and even gut health, are moving beyond surface-level symptoms to explore deeper biological and psychological mechanisms.

At the same time, digital tools and AI are expanding how symptoms are monitored and managed across daily life. This shift is opening the door to earlier diagnosis, more tailored treatments, and better tools for ongoing care.

As the scientific research on bipolar disorder progresses, so does the potential to improve real-life outcomes. People living with bipolar disorder are gaining access to mental health services that feel more relevant, responsive, and grounded in their unique needs. Continued research doesn’t just inform treatment, it brings us closer to care that is both highly effective and personalized.

References

  1. National Institute of Mental Health. (2025). Bipolar Disorder. National Institutes of Health. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.
  2. Ashok, A. H., Marques, T. R., Jauhar, S., Nour, M. M., Goodwin, G. M., Young, A. H., & Howes, O. D. (2017). The dopamine hypothesis of bipolar affective disorder: The state of the art and implications for treatment. Molecular Psychiatry, 22(5), 666–679. National Library of Medicine. Accessed October 10 2026.
  3. Shen, J., & Tomar, J. S. (2021). Elevated brain glutamate levels in bipolar disorder and pyruvate carboxylase-mediated anaplerosis. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 12, 634394. National Library of Medicine. Accessed October 10 2026.
  4. Ortega, M. A., Álvarez-Mon, M. A., García-Montero, C., Fraile-Martínez, Ó., Monserrat, J., Martinez-Rozas, L., Rodríguez-Jiménez, R., & Lahera, G. (2023). Microbiota–gut–brain axis mechanisms in the complex network of bipolar disorders: Potential clinical implications and translational opportunities. Molecular Psychiatry, 28(7), 2645–2673. Nature. Accessed October 10 2026.
  5. Calabrese, J. R., Hirschfeld, R. M. A., Reed, M., Davies, M. A., Frye, M. A., Keck, P. E., Lewis, L., McElroy, S. L., McNulty, J. P., & Wagner, K. D. (2003). Impact of bipolar disorder on a U.S. community sample. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 64(4), 425–432. psychiatrist.com. Accessed May 3 2025.
  6. Chen, R., Cui, Z., Capitão, L., Wang, G., Satterthwaite, T. D., & Harmer, C. (2020). Precision biomarkers for mood disorders based on brain imaging. BMJ, 371, m3618. BMJ. Accessed October 10 2026.
  7. Milic, J., Zrnic, I., Grego, E., Jovic, D., Stankovic, V., Djurdjevic, S., & Sapic, R. (2025). The role of artificial intelligence in managing bipolar disorder: A new frontier in patient care. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 14(7), 2515. MDPI. Accessed October 10 2026.

Medical Content

The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.

About MentalHealth.com

MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.

\"\"

Author

Areesha Hosmer, M.Sc.

MSc

Areesha Hosmer is a writer with an academic background in psychology and a focus on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Published
Updated
\"\"

Medical Reviewer

Holly Schiff, Psy.D.

Psy.D.

Holly Schiff, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, young adults, and their families.

Reviewed
\"\"

Related community

Bipolar Disorder

Connect around experiences of bipolar disorder, relationships, and everyday life.

","text":"Home Library Bipolar Disorder Bipolar Disorder Research Bipolar Disorder Research Written by Areesha Hosmer, M.Sc.Medically reviewed by Holly Schiff, Psy.D. Published on May 10, 2025 · Updated on December 19, 2025 Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition in which episodes of mania and depression affect a person’s mood, energy, and ability to function day-to-day. It’s a condition that can be hard to diagnose or treat without the right tools. As research continues to evolve, scientists are learning more about how bipolar disorder works by studying brain activity, genetics, and environmental factors. From brain chemistry to personalized care, current findings are reshaping how bipolar disorder is approached, offering better tools and new hope for more effective treatment. Key takeaways Bipolar disorder research is examining diagnostic delays, symptom subtypes, and genetic and neurological risk factors. Studies of neurotransmitters and the gut-brain connection are exploring possible mechanisms and future treatment targets. Personalized care and emerging digital tools aim to improve early recognition while addressing difficulties that persist between mood episodes. Research Advancements in Diagnosis and Subtyping Recent developments in bipolar disorder research are changing how the condition is diagnosed and understood. These findings reflect several critical updates in the field, particularly around early identification, diagnostic precision, and the complexity of clinical presentations. The Impact of Late Diagnosis Delays in diagnosing bipolar disorder are still common and can significantly affect long-term outcomes. Many people are initially misdiagnosed with depression or anxiety disorders, leading to inappropriate treatment. Bipolar disorder can go unrecognized for years, particularly when someone seeks help during depression and earlier hypomania has gone unnoticed. Assessment should consider the pattern of symptoms over time, family history, and possible alternative explanations⁠[1]. Symptom Patterns and Subtypes An assessment considers several features of a person’s mood history, including:⁠[1] Episode patterns: Mania, hypomania, depression, and mixed features help clinicians understand the course of illness. Rapid cycling: Four or more mood episodes within a year describe this pattern. Changes over time: Shifts in sleep, energy, activity, and functioning are considered alongside the duration and severity of symptoms. These insights are helping clinicians move away from rigid diagnostic categories and instead recognize bipolar disorder as a spectrum with varying patterns depending on the person. Data on Risk Factors and Biological Markers Research suggests that several influences contribute to bipolar disorder, including:⁠[1] Genetics: Many genes may contribute to risk, but no single gene causes bipolar disorder. Experiences: Trauma and stressful events may interact with genetic vulnerability. Brain structure and function: Group-level differences are being studied to better understand the illness and possible treatment responses. While no single biological marker has yet been validated for routine clinical use, this research builds a foundation for precise future approaches where diagnosis could be guided by individual biological profiles. Understanding Neurotransmitters in Bipolar Disorder Research has shown that neurotransmitters, or chemicals in the brain that help cells communicate, play a critical role in bipolar disorder. Current treatments often target these chemical messengers. For this reason, researchers are seeking more precise approaches by looking at the specific role of neurotransmitters in manic and depressive episodes. The Role of Dopamine in Bipolar Disorder Research suggests that dopamine, a neurotransmitter tied to motivation and reward, plays a major role in the mood shifts seen in bipolar disorder. This theory, known as the dopamine hypothesis, helps explain why people with bipolar disorder swing between depressive lows and manic highs. The role dopamine plays in bipolar disorder includes the following⁠[2]: Increased Dopamine in Mania: Manic episodes are linked to a surge in dopamine activity, which can lead to elevated mood, impulsivity, and racing thoughts. Decreased Dopamine in Depression: Dopamine levels drop during bipolar depression, contributing to low energy, lack of motivation, and emotional numbness. Sensitivity Shift: The brain’s dopamine system may become overly reactive in mania and under-responsive in depression, creating instability in mood regulation. The Role of Glutamate in Bipolar Disorder Glutamate is a neurotransmitter, or a chemical messenger in the brain that helps cells communicate and stay active⁠[3]. However, too much of it can cause problems. Research shows that people experiencing manic symptoms in bipolar disorder often have elevated glutamate levels in certain parts of the brain. Research concerning this link may lead to treatments that help regulate glutamate and stabilize mood through the following findings⁠[3]: Elevated Levels in Mania: People in manic states often show increased glutamate in brain regions like the anterior cingulate cortex, which is connected to emotional processing. Impact on Symptoms: Too much glutamate may overstimulate the brain, contributing to racing thoughts, impulsivity, and mood shifts. Insights on the Gut-Brain Connection in Bipolar Disorder The gut microbiome plays a larger role in brain health than previously believed. In bipolar disorder, researchers have found that the communication between the gut, brain, and immune system, known as the microbiota-gut-brain axis, may influence not just mood, but also how the body responds to stress and medication⁠[4]. Key findings from research on this topic include⁠[4]: Differences in Gut Bacteria: People with bipolar disorder often show imbalances in gut microbiota, particularly a reduction in anti-inflammatory strains. This imbalance may contribute to inflammation, which has been linked to mood instability. Immune System Involvement: Changes in gut bacteria may activate immune responses that influence brain chemistry. This could play a role in triggering or maintaining episodes. Impact on Medication Response: Some evidence suggests that gut bacteria can affect how the body metabolizes psychiatric medications, possibly influencing their effectiveness or side effects. These insights suggest that supporting gut health may help regulate mood in people with bipolar disorder. While clinical applications are still being developed, approaches like personalized nutrition, probiotics, and anti-inflammatory strategies are being explored as future treatment options. Data on How Bipolar Disorder Affects Daily Life Bipolar disorder often leads to lasting disruptions in work, relationships, and daily responsibilities. In a U.S. community sample, research found that people living with bipolar disorder experienced more impairment across multiple life domains compared to those without the condition. According to the study, common areas of impact includes the following domains⁠[5]: Work Performance: People with bipolar disorder reported missing work. They also said they had reduced productivity and increased job instability. Social Life: People with the condition said they experienced more conflict, withdrawal, and difficulty sustaining long-term relationships. Family Roles: The data showed that people with bipolar disorder faced challenges with parenting and household responsibilities. This was particularly noted among women in the sample. Legal and Financial Strain: The study found that legal and financial issues particularly impacted young people and men. Notably, the impact was not limited to periods of active illness. Many participants reported lingering symptoms and instability that disrupted their ability to function even when they were not in a full mood episode. Overall Functional Difficulties with Bipolar Disorder Support needs can continue between mood episodes. Ongoing treatment and monitoring should take account of difficulties such as:⁠[1] Continuing mood symptoms and their effect on daily activities. Changes in sleep, energy, and routines. Medication side effects that should be discussed with the prescriber. Co-occurring conditions, including anxiety or substance misuse. These findings emphasize the need for long-term care strategies that extend beyond mood management. Treatment plans that also support cognitive health, daily structure, and quality of life are essential for sustainable recovery. Personalized Bipolar Disorder Care Bipolar disorder treatment is shifting toward a more personalized approach. Instead of relying only on symptoms, researchers are exploring biological clues to guide care more effectively. Alongside insights on how genetics can inform one’s risk of bipolar disorder, studies are also examining how a person’s genes may affect their response to specific medications. In addition, biomarkers such as hormone or protein levels could help predict and guide treatment outcomes⁠[6]. These tools help clinicians understand the condition at a deeper level, making it possible to match people with treatments that work better for them. Subject matter expert Simone Hoermann Ph.D. Personality disorders, anxiety, and depression View profile The Role of Artificial Intelligence Artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to support more proactive and individualized treatment. By analyzing daily patterns and behaviors, AI tools can help monitor symptoms and guide decision-making in real time. According to research, some of the ways in which AI is supporting bipolar disorder treatment include⁠[7]: Early Relapse Detection: AI can track mood, sleep, and activity changes to alert users and healthcare providers before a full episode begins. Individualized Care: Data-driven insights help adjust treatment plans based on each person’s needs and patterns. Clinical Decision Support: AI helps clinicians identify the most effective treatment options with greater precision. Though still developing, these tools are opening new doors in how bipolar disorder is managed. Future of Bipolar Disorder Research Research on bipolar disorder is reshaping how we understand and approach the condition. Scientific studies, such as those on brain activity, neurotransmitters, and even gut health, are moving beyond surface-level symptoms to explore deeper biological and psychological mechanisms. At the same time, digital tools and AI are expanding how symptoms are monitored and managed across daily life. This shift is opening the door to earlier diagnosis, more tailored treatments, and better tools for ongoing care. As the scientific research on bipolar disorder progresses, so does the potential to improve real-life outcomes. People living with bipolar disorder are gaining access to mental health services that feel more relevant, responsive, and grounded in their unique needs. Continued research doesn’t just inform treatment, it brings us closer to care that is both highly effective and personalized. References National Institute of Mental Health. (2025). Bipolar Disorder. National Institutes of Health. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026. Ashok, A. H., Marques, T. R., Jauhar, S., Nour, M. M., Goodwin, G. M., Young, A. H., & Howes, O. D. (2017). The dopamine hypothesis of bipolar affective disorder: The state of the art and implications for treatment. Molecular Psychiatry, 22(5), 666–679. National Library of Medicine. Accessed October 10 2026. Shen, J., & Tomar, J. S. (2021). Elevated brain glutamate levels in bipolar disorder and pyruvate carboxylase-mediated anaplerosis. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 12, 634394. National Library of Medicine. Accessed October 10 2026. Ortega, M. A., Álvarez-Mon, M. A., García-Montero, C., Fraile-Martínez, Ó., Monserrat, J., Martinez-Rozas, L., Rodríguez-Jiménez, R., & Lahera, G. (2023). Microbiota–gut–brain axis mechanisms in the complex network of bipolar disorders: Potential clinical implications and translational opportunities. Molecular Psychiatry, 28(7), 2645–2673. Nature. Accessed October 10 2026. Calabrese, J. R., Hirschfeld, R. M. A., Reed, M., Davies, M. A., Frye, M. A., Keck, P. E., Lewis, L., McElroy, S. L., McNulty, J. P., & Wagner, K. D. (2003). Impact of bipolar disorder on a U.S. community sample. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 64(4), 425–432. psychiatrist.com. Accessed May 3 2025. Chen, R., Cui, Z., Capitão, L., Wang, G., Satterthwaite, T. D., & Harmer, C. (2020). Precision biomarkers for mood disorders based on brain imaging. BMJ, 371, m3618. BMJ. Accessed October 10 2026. Milic, J., Zrnic, I., Grego, E., Jovic, D., Stankovic, V., Djurdjevic, S., & Sapic, R. (2025). The role of artificial intelligence in managing bipolar disorder: A new frontier in patient care. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 14(7), 2515. MDPI. Accessed October 10 2026. Medical Content The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy. About MentalHealth.com MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life. Author Areesha Hosmer, M.Sc. MSc Areesha Hosmer is a writer with an academic background in psychology and a focus on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Published May 10, 2025 Updated December 19, 2025 Medical Reviewer Holly Schiff, Psy.D. Psy.D. Holly Schiff, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, young adults, and their families. Reviewed May 10, 2025 Related community Bipolar Disorder Connect around experiences of bipolar disorder, relationships, and everyday life. Table of contentsChoose a section Research Advancements in Diagnosis and Subtyping Data on Risk Factors and Biological Markers Understanding Neurotransmitters in Bipolar Disorder Insights on the Gut-Brain Connection in Bipolar Disorder Data on How Bipolar Disorder Affects Daily Life Overall Functional Difficulties with Bipolar Disorder Personalized Bipolar Disorder Care Future of Bipolar Disorder Research View more","wordCount":2065},"schema":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization","name":"MentalHealth.com","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","publishingPrinciples":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing/editorial-policy"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#website","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","name":"MentalHealth.com","inLanguage":"en-US","publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"}},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/bipolar-research-understanding#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Library","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Bipolar Disorder","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/bipolar-disorder"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Bipolar Disorder Research","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/bipolar-research-understanding"}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/bipolar-research-understanding#primaryimage","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/71752571ac6419670f0d83fc.webp","contentUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/71752571ac6419670f0d83fc.webp","width":1200,"height":800,"encodingFormat":"image/webp","caption":"A woman rests her chin on her hand beside a window."},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/areesha-hosmer#person","name":"Areesha Hosmer","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/areesha-hosmer","jobTitle":"MSc","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/98c7479dd0c3deaf63c6a3e7.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/areeshahosmer?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BTG9mvXJ%2FSQSE1tkc87jxPA%3D%3D"],"memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing#department"}]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/holly-schiff#person","name":"Holly Schiff, Psy.D.","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/holly-schiff","jobTitle":"Psy.D.","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/af4ecdb78008ac81cd3aa271.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-ann-schiff-psy-d-21b53821/"],"memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/clinical-affairs#department"}]},{"@type":"Article","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/bipolar-research-understanding#article","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/bipolar-research-understanding","headline":"Bipolar Disorder Research","description":"Explore the latest research on bipolar disorder, the biological risk factors and implications for care.","wordCount":1536,"mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/bipolar-research-understanding#webpage"},"publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"},"articleSection":"Bipolar Disorder","citation":[{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"National Institute of Mental Health. 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