Bright Nights Community Forum: Personalized Treatments for Depression and Bipolar Illnesses: Why ‘One Size’ Will Never Fit All

Thu, 04/28/2016 - 4:28pm

When: March 22, 2016 at Downtown Library Multi-Purpose Room

Depression and bipolar illnesses can affect anyone: you, a family member, a neighbor, or a friend. Some disorders are mild, while others are more serious and long-lasting, but almost all of these conditions can be diagnosed and treated, and most people can live better lives after treatment. However, no two people have exactly the same kind of depression or bipolar illness. Medications are an important element in the successful treatment of mental illness, often in combination with psychotherapy, or “talk therapy.” New research about the brain has given scientists hope that in the near future they will be able to personalize the approach to medical management for depressive illnesses, which will treat an individual’s particular symptoms based on their specific genetic background and other biological markers. Vicki Ellingrod, Pharm.D., BCPP, a Professor in the U-M College of Pharmacy and Medical School, presents a brief overview of the latest research on the emerging field of “pharmacogenetics,” which refers to the genetic basis of response to medications. This is followed by questions from the audience and a discussion with experts Jolene R. Bostwick, PharmD, BCPS, BCPP, Associate Chair, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Clinical Associate Professor, University of Michigan College of Pharmacy; and Srijan Sen, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Michigan and Depression Center Member. This event is co-sponsored by the University of Michigan Depression Center and the Ann Arbor District Library.