Bipolar Brain ChemistryThe central nervous system is a collection of brain cells specialized to send specific signals throughout the body to relay messages necessary for proper functioning. The way these cells, also called neurons, communicate with each other is through the process of releasing neurotransmitters. A balanced proportion of neurotransmitters is essential for the proper functioning of the mind. In situations where neurotransmitters become out of sync by becoming too prevalent or sparse in synaptic clefts, a wide spectrum of mental illnesses can result. Manic depression, also known as bipolar disorder, is an example of dysfunction of neurons responsible for regulating certain neurotransmitters. Through critical analysis of this problem in the system, one can attempt to better understand one aspect of the bipolar brain, as well as understand how certain medications may work to relieve symptoms. In order to understand the effects of these dysfunctions, it is essential for a brief crash course in what it means to be bipolar. This disorder is usually characterized by periods of intense mania, followed closely by deep, pure depression with interspersed "mixed" periods. Manic periods are characterized by intense feelings of euphoria. This may sound positive, but these phases usually lead to bouts of impaired judgment. Behaviors may become grandiose and appear extremely hyperactive. The person may have increased libido, want to stay awake all night, and exhibit an overall decrease in inhibition. The depression that follows these bouts of ecstasy comes quickly, and they are both dark and unforgiving. People with bipolar disorder have no middle ground...... middle of paper ...... Philippe Huguelet, Linda E. Ohl, Robert A. Koeppe, Michael R. Kilbourn, Jodie M. Carr , Bruno J. Giordani, Kirk A. Frey (2000) Elevated vesicular monoamine transporter binding in asymptomatic bipolar I disorder: sex differences and cognitive correlates. American Journal of Psychiatry. (Vol. 157, pp. 1619-1628). McEwen, B. (1999). Stress and hippocampal plasticity. (Vol. 22, pp. 105-122). New York, NY: Harold and Margaret Milliken Hatch Neuroendocrinology Laboratory, Rockefeller University. Retrieved from http://www.annualreviews.org/doi/abs/10.1146/annurev.neuro.22.1.105 Purse, Â. M. (nd). Mood Stabilizing Medications for Bipolar Disorder – What Are Mood Stabilizers. Bipolar Disorder Symptoms, Diagnosis, Medications, Treatment – ​​Coping with Bipolar Disorder. Retrieved April 10, 2014 from http://bipolar.about.com/od/moodstabilizers/a/moodstabilizers.htm