What Causes Bipolar Disorder

Back

About 2% of the general population are diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Roughly, there are an equal proportion of men and women, usually in their 20s or 30s, but some teenagers are also affected.

Very little is known about the causes of bipolar disorder, although it does run in families, suggesting a genetic link. Some people, however, have no family history of it. During pregnancy, the effects of the mother’s nutrition and mental and physical health on the developing foetus are also seen as important factors.

The fact that symptoms can be controlled by medication, especially lithium and anticonvulsants, suggests that there may be problems with the function of the nerves in the brain, and this is supported by some research. Disturbances in the endocrine system (controlling hormones) may also be involved.

Most research suggests that a stressful environment, social factors, and physical illness may trigger the condition. Stress (in a variety of forms) seems to be the most significant trigger; sleep disturbance being another important contributor.


Stressful life events


Some people can link the start of their bipolar disorder to a period of great stress, such as childbirth, a relationship breakdown, money problems or a career change.


Family background


Some believe bipolar disorder can result from severe emotional damage caused in early life, such as physical, sexual or emotional abuse. Grief, loss, trauma and neglect can all be contributing factors – they all shock the developing mind and produce unbearable stress.


Life problems


It's possible that bipolar disorder could be a reaction to overwhelming problems in everyday life. Mania could be a way of escaping unbearable depression: someone who appears to have a very over-inflated sense of their own importance and their place in society may be compensating for a severe lack of self-confidence and self-esteem.


View as PDF


Back


The Have I Got A Problem website is a free online resource to help people better understand any issues or concerns they may have about mental health or addiction. The website includes resources specifically focused to; general Mental Health, Depression, Stress, Anxiety, Insecurities, Self-harm Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Anger Management, Eating Disorders, Coping, general Addiction, Alcohol, Smoking, Gambling, Drugs, Cocaine, Heroin, Marijuana (Cannabis) Ecstasy, PCP, Mephedrone, Ketamine & Crystal Meth.

The site was created to give the public information to help them understand mental health and addiction issues and to assist people in making better informed decisions about their life and personal choices.

www.haveigotaproblem.com was created and is run by 'Advising Communities’, which is a UK registered charity (Charity No. 1061055)

Quotes

"I managed with some hard work and good support to get things under control, get a job and go back to college."

Anonymous

MoreSend us your Quotes

Tips & Hints

  • Establish healthy routines

    Doing exercise and establishing healthy routines can help you to relieve stress and level your moods. Try to sleep seven or eight hours...
    More
  • Avoid alcohol and stimulants

    Drinking alcohol can neutralize the beneficial effects of the medication you have been prescribed. Alcohol can also cause liver damage,...
    More
  • Be careful with the medication

    People who suffer from bipolar disorders have to avoid taking medications that the doctor has not prescribed. Let your psychiatrist, nu...
    More
  • Keep appointments with your therapist and psychiatrist

    If you miss appointments, you tend to lose touch and can start to unwind. It is a good idea for your support team to know what is going...
    More
  • Master your triggers

    This is extremely important. When you learn to identify your triggers you are able to manage your mood cycles when they begin, instead ...
    More
  • More Tips & Hints