Bipolar disorder often runs in families, and research suggests that this is mainly explained by heredity. People with certain genes are more likely to develop bipolar disorder than others. There are many genes involved, and no gene can cause the disorder. But genes aren't the only factor.
Bipolar disorder is widely believed to result from chemical imbalances in the brain. Scientists believe that bipolar disorder is the result of a complicated relationship between genetic and environmental factors. Research suggests that a person is born with a vulnerability to bipolar disorder, which means they are more likely to develop the disorder. However, this is not the only factor in determining if a person will get sick.
Environmental factors, such as stressful life events, also seem to play a role in that they can cause the onset of the disease or trigger a relapse of symptoms. Nobody knows exactly what causes bipolar disorder. Research suggests that a combination of factors could increase your chances of developing it. This includes physical, environmental and social conditions.
Some experts believe that experiencing a lot of emotional distress in childhood can lead to the development of bipolar disorder. This could be because childhood trauma and distress can have a big effect on their ability to control their emotions. But this does not strictly mean that there is a “bipolar gene”. Family ties are likely to be much more complex.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), bipolar disorder affects more than 10 million people in the United States, or about 2.8% of the population. Worrying about losing sleep can increase anxiety, making bipolar mood disorder completely worse. Treatment allows many people with bipolar disorder to work, study, and live full and productive lives. However, with proper treatment and some lifestyle changes, many diseases, including bipolar disorder, can be effectively managed.
Signs and symptoms of bipolar I and bipolar II disorders may include other characteristics, such as anxious distress, melancholy, psychosis, or others. Some studies suggest that the use of certain recreational drugs may increase the risk of developing bipolar disorder. People with bipolar disorder generally need mood-stabilizing medications to control manic or hypomanic episodes. Scientists are currently conducting research to determine the relationship these factors have in bipolar disorder, how they can help prevent its occurrence, and what role they can play in its treatment.
It can be difficult for a doctor to diagnose bipolar disorder, as people are more likely to seek help with a low mood than with a high mood. However, it's important to know the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder and seek early intervention. Many studies of bipolar patients and their families have shown that bipolar disorder sometimes runs in families. As stated by NAMI, people with bipolar II disorder may experience more frequent episodes of depression than people with bipolar I disorder.
The new edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) lists more than four types of bipolar disorder. However, receiving treatment at the first sign of a mental health disorder can help prevent the worsening of bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions.
