What Causes Bipolar Disorder?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Bipolar disorder is widely believed to be the result of chemical imbalances in the brain . The chemicals responsible for controlling the brain’s functions are called neurotransmitters, and include noradrenaline, serotonin and dopamine.

Are you born with bipolar disorder or can you develop it?

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 illness , which means that they are more prone to developing the disorder.

What is the main cause of bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is widely believed to be the result of chemical imbalances in the brain . The chemicals responsible for controlling the brain’s functions are called neurotransmitters, and include noradrenaline, serotonin and dopamine.

What are 4 signs of bipolar disorder?

  • Uncharacteristic periods of anger and aggression.
  • Grandiosity and overconfidence.
  • Easy tearfulness, frequent sadness.
  • Needing little sleep to feel rested.
  • Uncharacteristic impulsive behavior.
  • Moodiness.
  • Confusion and inattention.

What is a bipolar person like?

People with bipolar experience both episodes of severe depression, and episodes of mania – overwhelming joy, excitement or happiness, huge energy, a reduced need for sleep, and reduced inhibitions. The experience of bipolar is uniquely personal. No two people have exactly the same experience.

Can bipolar go away?

Although the symptoms come and go, bipolar disorder usually requires lifetime treatment and does not go away on its own . Bipolar disorder can be an important factor in suicide, job loss, and family discord, but proper treatment leads to better outcomes.

How can you tell if someone is bipolar?

  1. feeling sad, hopeless or irritable most of the time.
  2. lacking energy.
  3. difficulty concentrating and remembering things.
  4. loss of interest in everyday activities.
  5. feelings of emptiness or worthlessness.
  6. feelings of guilt and despair.
  7. feeling pessimistic about everything.
  8. self-doubt.

What age does bipolar start?

Although bipolar disorder can occur at any age, typically it’s diagnosed in the teenage years or early 20s . Symptoms can vary from person to person, and symptoms may vary over time.

Is bipolar a disability?

Bipolar disorder is considered a disability under the ADA , just like blindness or multiple sclerosis. You may also qualify for Social Security benefits if you can’t work.

Is bipolar inherited from the mother or father?

Bipolar disorder is frequently inherited , with genetic factors accounting for approximately 80% of the cause of the condition. Bipolar disorder is the most likely psychiatric disorder to be passed down from family. If one parent has bipolar disorder, there’s a 10% chance that their child will develop the illness.

Can a bipolar person truly love?

Absolutely. Can someone with bipolar disorder have a normal relationship? With work from both you and your partner, yes . When someone you love has bipolar disorder, their symptoms can be overwhelming at times.

Can bipolar people tell they are bipolar?

So no, not everyone who has bipolar disorder knows they have it . There are lots of reasons why someone with bipolar disorder might not realize it—or why they might deny having it even if they do.

What are the 4 types of bipolar?

  • Bipolar 1. This type of bipolar disorder is characterized by manic episodes, with or without depression symptoms. ...
  • Bipolar 2. Bipolar 2 disorder is characterized by having both manic and depressive episodes. ...
  • Cyclothymic disorder. ...
  • Other types.

What should you not say to someone with bipolar?

  • “You’re Just Overreacting Again”
  • “Anything That Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger”
  • “Everybody Has Mood Swings Sometimes”
  • “Everyone Is a Little Bipolar Sometimes”
  • “You Are Psycho”
  • “You’re Acting Like a Maniac”
  • “I Wish I Was Manic so I Could Get Things Done”

Does Bipolar remember what they say?

When a person with bipolar disorder regularly exaggerates their stories , it may be that this is how they remember them. The tendency for rapid speech during a manic phase may also make a statement seem like a lie. An example of this is when the person goes on talking without reflecting.

Does Bipolar worsen with age?

Bipolar may worsen with age or over time if this condition is left untreated . As time goes on, a person may experience episodes that are more severe and more frequent than when symptoms first appeared.

James Park
Author
James Park
Dr. James Park is a medical doctor and health expert with a focus on disease prevention and wellness. He has written several publications on nutrition and fitness, and has been featured in various health magazines. Dr. Park's evidence-based approach to health will help you make informed decisions about your well-being.