Bipolar is a disease of the brain caused by neurotransmitters, or chemicals, in the brain. It is not curable, but it is controllable with medication and therapy. Most scientists and researchers believe it is genetic.
The Science
A recent study by the Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research found a relationship between the disorder and a variation in two separate genes that manage the flow of elements into and out of cells, specifically neurons. Researchers believe this shows that it is possible to pass on genes that predispose a child to bipolar disorder.
Percentages
According to Dr. Candida Fink, bipolar disorder is 75 percent to 80 percent hereditary. Research has shown that if one parent is bipolar, the child has a seven to 10 percent higher risk of developing the disease. If both parents are bipolar, it's 20 percent higher. Identical twins are 70 percent more likely to develop bipolar if there sibling has the disease.
Non-Diagnosis
Typically, the further back you go in time, the less likely it is that the disease was diagnosed. That's why it is important when considering family history to think about behavior consistent with bipolar symptoms, not just who may have been officially diagnosed.
Most Genetic
According to Dr. Francis Mcmahon, Chief of the Genetics Unit of the Mood Anxiety Disorders program at the National Institute of Mental Health, "It has been known for a long time that bipolar disorder is the most genetic of the mental illnesses."
Comorbidity
Patients who have bipolar are also at a higher risk of having other psychiatric syndromes. These can include anxiety disorders, ADD and substance abuse. This link furthers the argument that bipolar disorder is in fact genetic.
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