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Creativity and Bipolar Disorder
Biology 202
2003 Second Web Paper
On Serendip
Creativity and Bipolar Disorder
Nicole Megatulski
History has always held a place for the "mad genius", the kind who, in a bout of euphoric fervor, rattles off revolutionary ideas, incomprehensible to the general population, yet invaluable to the population's evolution into a better adapted species over time. Is this link between creativity and mental illness one of coincidence, or are the two actually related? If related, does heightened creative behavior alter the brain's neurochemistry such that one becomes more prone to a mental illness like bipolar disorder? Does bipolar disorder cause alterations in neurochemistry in the brain that increase creative behavior through elevated capacity for thought and expression? Is this link the result of some third factor which causes both of the two effects?
Centuries of literature and innumerable studies have supported strong
cases relating creativity--particularly in the arts, music and
literature--to bipolar disorder. Both creativity and bipolar disorder
can be attributed to a genetic predisposition and environmental
influences. Biographical studies, diagnostic and psychological studies
and family studies provide different aspects for examining this
relationship.
A 1949 study of 113 German artists, writers, architects, and composers
was one of the first to undertake an extensive, in-depth investigation
of both artists and their relatives. Although two-thirds of the 113
artists and writers were "psychically normal," there were more suicides
and "insane and neurotic" individuals in the artistic group than could
be expected in the general population, with the highest rates of
psychiatric abnormality found in poets (50%) and musicians (38%). (1)
Many other similar tests revealed this disproportionate occurrence of
mental illness, specifically bipolar disorder, in artistic and creative
people, including a recent study of individuals over a thirty-year
period (1960 to 1990). Overall, when comparing individuals in the
creative arts with those in other professions (such as businessmen,
scientists, and public officials), the artistic group showed two to
three times the rate of psychosis, suicide attempts, mood disorders,
and substance abuse. (1)
Another recent study was the first to undertake scientific diagnostic
inquiries into the relationship between creativity and psychopathology
in living writers. Eighty percent of the study sample met formal
diagnostic criteria for a major mood disorder versus thirty percent of
the control sample. The statistical difference between these two rates
is highly significant, where p<.001. This means that the odds of
this difference occurring by chance alone are less than one in a
thousand. Of particular interest, almost one-half the creative writers
met the diagnostic criteria for full-blown manic-depressive illness. (1)
This is not to say that the majority of artists are bipolar but rather
that there is a considerably higher incidence in bipolar disorder among
artists than among the general population.
Collectively, these studies and numerous others have clinically
supported the existence of a link between bipolar disorder and
creativity. Now the question applies: Is bipolar disorder the result of
above-average creativity or is above-average creativity the result of
bipolar disorder or are the two a result of some third factor which
causes the two effects? From the sources I have encountered, I believe
a stronger case is made for the latter, although it is impossible to
scientifically or psychologically answer that question at this time.
Predisposition to bipolar disorder is genetically inherited and current
studies suggest the same for predisposition to creativity but is there
a common genetic factor, which determines the expression of both
traits? If there were, neither creativity nor bipolar disorder would
implicitly cause the other. A recent study hypothesized that a genetic
vulnerability to manic-depressive illness would be accompanied by a
predisposition to creativity, which, according to the investigators,
might be more prominent among close relatives of manic-depressive
patients than among the patients themselves. Significantly higher
combined scores from a creativity assessment test were observed among
the manic-depressive patients and their normal first-degree relatives
than among the control subjects, suggesting a possible genetic link
between the two characteristics, as both are prevalent in families with
a history of bipolar disorder and not as evident in control families. (1)
A wide variety of artistic and creative talents, ranging from music to
art to mathematics, were exhibited among the family members of the
bipolar patients as well. The varied manifestations of creativity
within the same family suggest that whatever is transmitted within
families is a general factor that predisposes them to a creative
mentality, rather than a specific giftedness in a single area. The
coexistence of creativity accompanied by manic depression, whether
expressed in bipolar patients or not expressed in their predisposed
family members, suggests that a third factor, yet unidentified, may be
orchestrating the expression of the two.
Assuming both creativity and bipolar disorder, or at least
predisposition to the illness, are expressed simultaneously, what
accounts for heightened creativity in people upon onset of bipolar
disorder? A deficit in normal information-processing could be
manifested in a severe behavioral disorder, but it could also favor
creative associations between information units or a propensity toward
innovation and originality. (2)
The altered neurological structure and functioning in the frontal lobe,
prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus and cerebellum associated
with bipolar disorder may also allow for more creative thought.
People with bipolar mood disorders tend to be more emotionally
reactive, which gives them greater sensitivity and acuteness. This,
coupled with a lack of inhibition due to compromised frontal lobe
processes, permits them unrestrained and unconventional forms of
expressions, less limited by accepted norms and customs. They are more
open to experimentation and risk-taking behavior, and, as a
consequence, more assertive and resourceful than the mean. (2) (3)
Characteristics of the bipolar disorder, such as lowered inhibition,
allow for freer expression of previously contained ideas and the
constant flux between manic and depressive states also gives an unusual
kaleidoscopic perspective of the world. All of these factors can
account for increased creativity once the illness erupts. (5)
The current model supports the existence of a relationship between
creativity and bipolar disorder as the coexisting effects caused by
some third factor. Uncovering the origin of the relationship between
creativity and bipolar disorder will require continued studies,
particularly those implementing brain scans and genetic isolation
techniques, aimed at identifying this mysterious third factor that
would link the two traits together. (4)
The new equipment and test available, such as PET scans, Magnetic
Resonance Imaging and gene mapping, has complicated the process by
offering new ways to explain bipolar disorder as a possible collection
of disorders presenting closely similar symptoms. Hence, the third
factor may actually be a combination of multiple factors like
environmental insults to fetal development, hormonal imbalances in the
womb and inordinate stress during development in addition to genetic
factors. (6)
When it is determined which of these factors, acting either alone or in
various combinations, are the mysterious third factor, the origin of
the relationship between creativity and bipolar disorder will be
unveiled.
References
1) Jamison, Kay Redfield. Touched with Fire. New York: Simon & Schuster, 1993.2) Journal of Memetics, an article addressing creativity, evolution and mental illness.
3) Bipolar Disorder, an educational resource about bipolar disorder.
4) Manic-Depressive & Depressive Association of Boston, an article discussing the genetics of bipolar disorder.
5) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, an online version of the resource book.
6) From Neurons to Neighborhoods, a book that addresses early development of the brain.
Comments made prior to 2007
As a bipolar disorder person, for my entire life, I must compliment the
young lady for her assessment of my conditon. There are several items
that I think the readership of Serendip's Forum must understand, as an
addendum to her article. First and foremost, neither pschiatrists, nor
psychologists, understand what bipolar disorder is, and how the
medications work in the brain to balance that brain and make it
"normal." Secondly, there are no Silver Bullets to help all, only a
percentage of the people who suffer from this destructive illness can
live normal lives, as long as they take their medications as was
prescribed. Thirdly, it is not a mental disorder, but it is a
physiological disorder as there is a deficincy of chemicals to the
receptors of the brain that causes my problem. Presently, I am working
on a book on bipolar disorder, and how my life was a roller coaster
ride, and during my entire life. My book should be finished in about
ten months. The name will be, "The Roller Coaster Ride of a Bipolar
Disorder Patient. Thanks again for her good read ... Michael Joel Hel,
21 April 2006
Comments
I am bi polar as well and
I am bi polar as well and I've come up with this theory without any prior knowledge to research and studies done already. I also believe bi-polar to have something to do with divinity....please, if anyone knows whaaat im saying here..please e mail me . because alot of things have been happening to me lately that are unfolding into somthing here yet my life is collapsing more and more every day. i dont want to take meds for fear of losing my creative thoughts that i beleive are truely benificial to society... but it always comes back to the feelings of divinity... please do not judge. i say house, you may think of a red one, and he may think of a green one. everyone has a diferent perception. please dont call me crazy, but know that everyone is different for a reason.
YEAH BUD I KNOW WHAT YOUR
YEAH BUD I KNOW WHAT YOUR SAYING ABOUT DIVINITY, BUT DONT STRIVE TO HARD OR YOU WILL GO CRAZY!!.. ENJOY THE GOOD SPIRITUAL HIGH BUT ALSO CONTROL IT BECAUSE IT IS BAD AT THE END OR NEW BEGINNING.. CONTROL BAD THOUGHTS, LOVE LIFE, SLOW YA ROLL, AND MAYBE DIVINE ISNT COMPLETE PERFECTION BUT JUST SOME SORT OF BALANCED STATE OF MIND OF FEELIN EMPOWERED AND NOT COUNTING ON MANIA TO BELIEVE AND CREATE.. IVE NOTICED ALOT MORE MANIAC PEOPLE ON HERE THAT SEEM TO HAVE A CALLING TO GIVE AND HELP FELLOW PEOPLE LESS FORTUNATE!!GOOD.. SO!! IF YOUR READING THIS!! 1.)LEARN TO CHILL!!2.) NO WORRIES OR FALSE BELIEFS! DOWN LOAD GOOD THOUGHTS IN YOUR BRAINS STARTING NOW.. 3.) IF U GET ALL SPIRITUALLY HIGH TALKING GREATNESS, THEN GOING AHEAD AND TAKING A NAP WONT TAKE UR CREATIVITY!! NEITHER WILL A LIL MEDICATION FOR A YEAR OR SO!!TRU STORY 4.) FELLOW WILD DRUG INDUCED PHYSCOTIC BOYS/GIRLS NEED TO COME OF THE INVINCIBLE PEDASTOOL BEFORE YOU POSSIBLY DIE IN VANE!5.)$$ IF UR SEARCH FOR DIVINITY STEMS FROM SOME INTERNAL ISSUE YOU HAVE FUELING UR FIRE.. GET HELP!!6.) LISTEN IF READING.. IM 19 AND ESCAPED DIENG 6 TIMES BEFORE I ENDING UP COUNTING TULIPS.. if u have worries that cause rapid thoughts or a disbelief even if you only worry about it once a year!!.. TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR!! LOL JUST CONTROL UR MIND TAKE RESPONSIBILTY FOR THOUGTHS AN ACTIONS.. DONT COUNT ON MANIA 2 CREATE UNLESS YOU WANT TO SEE SOME OF THE SCARIEST STUFF YOU COULD EVER IMAGINE.. I SUFFERED!!! TO GET CLOSER TO DIVINTY !! PAIN!! SCARY!! WENT FRM RAPPING/MONEY/HIGHSPEED/ THUG/DRUGS/GUNS/SEX/COOL/DIENG -2- DARKDEMONS/MENTAL HOSPITAL/VOICES/SEEIN MORE DEMONS/POLICE SEARCHIN FOR ME/PAIN!!!bitch!!PAIN!! BACK TO SMART INVESTMENTS/MUSIC RECORDS/DESIGNING HOMES/PUSSY/SOME DRUGS/ MAN ITS A LIFE STYLE IF U AINT GANA BE GOOD AND PRODUCTIVE WITH IT TAKE YA MEDS!! HA if yall dont think you can handle it talk to ya doc please dont pussy out when u stress out and go to hell and kill yourself.. please just read this a few times get the key points twist the words a lil and take not from a tru physcotic demon slayer I MAKE HITS OUT HOLLA LOVE GOD
crazy's not so bad
I am a bipolar as well and I struggle with myself everyday. I don't want to take medication either, even though, that is what everyone seems to recommend to me. I am afraid I will lose my creativity and my ability to think outside of that proverbial box. I understand completely what you are saying. We all have the potential for greatness. I believe that. I study philosophy and poetry. Through these arts I aim to discover myself and the world to the best of my ability, and share my insights, experiences so others may learn something. I feel I have been chosen to disseminate this knowledge and experience to the world. I am most passionate about the existentialists, since they emphasize self exploration and analysis. To truly know oneself naturally opens you up to the rest of the universe. My life is simply a journey of self discovery. That is enough for me.
However, I am frequently derailed by my own drama and chaos. It is difficult for me to stay put anywhere for more than a year or hold down a job. I am very emotional and impulsive and...well it's a long list. But at the same time I think, everyone has some burden(s) to live with. All and all, being bipolar is not among the worst of them. Life was never meant to be easy. To be honest, if it was, I'd probably be bored.
Fear of losing creativity
I too was afraid of losing my creativity if I tool meds, but once my dr. found the right combination, everything is better. I am still as creative and I can manage it much better. I have been able to complete writing projects and publish them. I don't have to wait for a creative high to come along; I can stimulate my creativity through music, prayer, etc. My psychologist told me that bipolar disorder does not GIVE you abilities or personality; instead, it ENHANCES what YOU already have. This is true. I am the same special person now but able to contribute my talents to the world.
If a medicine dulls you out and you can get in touch with your creative self, tell your dr. you'll have to try something else. Also, try NeuroFeedback. It is non-invasive and it retrains your brain to reduce its anxiety and to respond better to stimuli. It has changed my life.
Bipolar Disorder
I was recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder and just started taking meds. It really hit home when you expressed the divinity aspect of having this illness. Some of the thoughts that I have are so moving it leaves me immobile and then I crash. Im working on expressing myself also so the world can benefit from the ideas that I have. I live inside of myself a lot and I'm really afraid to let go. It feels so much like home when your down and going through episodes. But on the flip side I know I need to take my meds. Anyway I apologize for changing the tone of this message. Hang in there and eveerything will be alright. Shoot me an email if you ever need to express some things.
Advice?
Wow. When you said "I live inside of myself a lot and I'm really afraid to let go" that just hit me because... that's what I say about myself, that I live inside myself, that is. I actually wrote that in a poem. That exact phrase. I came to this article because my life is spiraling out of control and I have a notion that there is something not quite normal about me. I've always been a super creative person. I've played four instruments and excelled at art classes all of my life. I've always loved to write. This is mainly prose, but sometimes poetry just comes spurting out of me and I have to find a pen and paper and write it down. I recently started working on theatrical design, too. And there was something about math relating to creativity. I've never liked math, but I've always been good at it. A lot of the time I'm really... well my friends call it calm, but I guess it would be depressed when the euphamisms are pushed aside. But sometimes I'm really happy for no reason. And sometimes I don't sleep at all or very little for days on end. And sometimes I'm constantly getting myself into projects to keep me busy. But then when I'm calm I'm super calm. There was a period last January when I slept all the time. I was sleeping for 36 hours straight. And then I'm always tired. And I don't do my work. And I can just sit alone and do nothing for ever. And at other times I get so restless I want to do things and go out and be active and I talk to my family a lot more then too. Or anyone around, really. I don't know. I could just be overreacting. But I just started college... and it's not working out so well. So the other day I went to see someone about what was going on. And it was only after that that I thought about this. There was a sign in the clinic that advertised meetings for people with bipolar disorder and cyclothymia. And I was curious as to what cyclothymia was. So I looked it up. And that's what started all of this. I guess what I'm agonizing over now is do I just let the psychologist do her thing? or do I bring my research up? I mean I don't want to seem like I'm just a hypochondriac or seem like I'm taking this disorder lightly at all... I don't know. Does anyone have any advice?
Me Too
Bless you hun, reading these posts has made me feel a little less restless. I went to the doctors not long ago as i was having really bad episodes where as for 3 weeks i was feeling on top of the world then as quickly as it came it was gone and replaced with a seriously deep feeling of no self worth, anxiety, panick attacks and irrational thoughts. I felt like all the creativity and personality had been sucked out of me and i couldnt handle it!! Then a few days later i was writing my books again and feeling like i could anything? I too feel as though people think that i am just over reacting but when your lying in bed and shaking as your whole world is spinning ut of control and you dont know what is going with your unbalanced moods, the crying, the laughing the complete icoaltion then you are social butterfly? Absoulutly crippling! I am scared that if i take meds it will stop my fantastic ideas for my books and then im nothing. My creativity makes me who i am, i cant think about not being able to express myself, i cry to the thought of not having ideas pop into my head now and again. So i will try the talking route and see where it takes me. Not sure if anyone is the same but i am the kind of person thats wants it now, i want to know whats wrong with me today not months down the line! Go figure, maybe ill just embrase teh fact im different and go from there! xx
As you get older, this is
As you get older, this is going to get worse. Medication is the first step that you will eventually have to take, so start now. I have not lost my creativity because I insisted my doctor put me on something else when a medicine dulled my out. Keep trying doctors to find one who understands that we must have our creativity to be whole.
Agree but disagree....
It will get worse...but meds are not always the answer. i no longer believe in medication to "help" with this disorder. At least not current methods. I'm a type I with rapid cycling and have an over active defensive mechanism. Tried cycling through doctors, several combination of meds (since one isn't enough), and been to countless individual/group therapy sessions. the pills only worked for a short time before the dose had to be increased or new cocktails experimented with. Not much help. Increased my thoughts/attempts at self-termination instead of nullifying them, killed many natural drives, and they can be hard to come down from. Just as my opinion, meds and docs are not the whole solution to "getting better". i despise the fact there are very few accepted/known alternatives to maintaining stability with such a disorder. but there are others out there besides routinely taking some pills to become chemically balance for a time. all depends on perspective and experience with coping with this in an individuals life course. Best of luck if you choose meds...more if alternatives are sought.
....nothing but mere shadows and dust....
Not really a morbid statement. But its true. Though we are part of the collective infected on this Earth, we are just like the rest of our brethren...we are human. Yet, instead of seeing this world through a telescope that allows us to narrowly view the course, we see it with the kaleidoscope of emotional arrays and spectrum. Learning to deal with our malfunctions as well as developing ways to cope is paramount to a bipolar. As far as meds are concerned....that is up to each individual. But I do wish you the best if that is the course you want to take.
It is often the most random times my "switch" is triggered or shut off. The only thing bad is the rapid-cycling. One day, will arise to take the whole world on with one hand behind my back...then the next if not a few later as if I just exist without a purpose. Just pulled out of a depression cycle a few weeks back and am happy to say it was done with no help but personal remedies. During that time, my quill dried and poetry ceased. As frustrating as it may be, its better to just take a break and let the ride even out before proceeding. Write down abstract thoughts you have or are dwelling on in a notebook next to your books. They don't even have to make sense for it is just for the sake of tricking your mind into believing it can write through such harsh times. When that fails, at least you have some interesting material to read during the rise into normal levels or mania. Just remember...though everything may be wanted in the here and now, there are something that are best gazed upon for a few moments before the answer is reviled. Trust me, I'm the same way...like a cat chasing a laser it will never catch, won't give up until the answer is in my grasp.
I'd be more than happy to share the research found, personal experience, as well as advice collected.
A bit of advice
Its part of the condition. Sleepless night, nostalgic feelings, or just being too tired all the time. The hardest part about this illness is it differs from person to person. Since diagnoses at 13, I have been on a never ending quest for a cure. Ten years later, still haven't found one. And that's just it. There isn't one for all. Each "cure" created is for the individual, by the individual or with outside aid. One may play sports rather than write when feeling downed or oppressed. It all depends on the outlet. Being able to accept oneself as what they really are is often the hardest part due to the overwhelming notion to try and fit in with the rest of the crowd. Therefore, some clam up and go away inside and let others take over. This brings us back to the psychologist. From my experience, they are there for initial diagnoses, medication, and mediation between you and the psychiatrist. If you have questions, bring them up! Last thing you want is to be dosed up on meds you don't even need or a misdiagnoses. Always, if not eternally, question when it comes down to dealing with this issue. The more you know, the more you can help yourself and address the areas that need attention with the disorder.
bipolar divinity
Would God cause such hardship so that we could have more insightfulness? That was a very strong concern of mine for a few years. Praying has been a better resource for me. I need to center on the peace and love that eminates from a heartfelt relationship with God. And medictions are not an afront to divinity. Peace.