[This is an adaptation of the pamphlet sent to us, to be shared "... in whatever way ..." with our clients.]
Bipolar Disorder Genetics Project Staff
The Staff of the Clinical Neurogenetics Branch invites families with two or more siblings who have experienced bipolar disorder to join our sturdy. Parents are also asked to participate.
Earlier Studies suggest that an inborn tendency to develop bipolar disorder runs in some families. However, most relatives will never develop the illness.
In our family studies we look for the genes which may be causing some family members to be at risk for a psychological disorder. As we discover the nature of each gene, we will be able to develop better treatments.
We urge individuals suffering from bipolar disorder, along with their family members, to participate in a scientific study which will help us better understand the causes of this disorder.
Bipolar Disorder (also called manic-depressive illness) is a mental illness involving episodes of serious mania and depression. The person's mood usually swings from overly "high" or irritable to sad and hopeless and then back again. There may be periods of normal mood in between. Family members of people with bipolar disorder often have to cope with serious behavioral problems.
Many persons who sufer from bipolar disorder, or who have a close relative with the disorder, have already brought their families into the study. The reason most often given is, "If I can help prevent this from happening to anyone else, I'll do anything." These families share our hope that finding genetic markers and vulnerability genes for this disoorder will help medical researchers understand more about its pphysical basis. As a result, we will be able to develop more effective medications.
You are an essential player in the research. Without the help of people like you and your family, no study of inherited traits can be done and little progress will be made. We depend on your participation.
Usually someone who suffers from the disorder, or a close relative, calls or writes us. We do an initial screening and inquire about the minimum of two living siblings with bipolar disorder. We ask permission to write a letter to relatives, explaining the program and inviting participation. Those who accept send back a form noting the best time for us to call.
An interview and a sample of blood
Scheduling is done to best suit the family member. While most of the work is done by telephone, in some instances we will be able to come to the homes of participants. Weekend and evening appointments are available for those who need them. No travel is needed.
All of the information obtained by the Family/Genetic Study will remain completely confidential, even among family members.
When research papers are published, no names or other identifying information about individual participants will appear.
Please call our Mrs. Maxwell at (301)496-8977 (collect). She and our staff will be glad to answer any of your questions.
If you prefer, fill out the information below and we will contact you directly.
[Print, fill out, and mail this form. It is not an internet-sendable form.]
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[This is an adaptation of the pamphlet sent to us, to be shared "... in whatever way ..." with our clients.]