You are here:
Bipolar Disorder/Family line
Advertisement
Question
Can bipolar disorder run dormant in a family for years passing it down genetically without it coming out unless it is triggered by something?
Eleanor:
The simple answer is "yes". People are born with the genetic disposition for bipolar disorder. The disorder, however, is normally "triggered" by some highly stressful event, which can vary from person to person. It is highly possible that past generations may have had coping skills that aided in handling stress and a current generation member finds some event too stressful to handle. This could trigger the bipolar disorder.
Joyce A. Anthony
Related Articles
Answers by Expert:
Joyce A. Anthony
Expertise
I can answer questions dealing with bipolar disorder in a parent, yourself or your child. I can give suggestions and insight into what can be expected of many medications for bipolar disorder. My most extensive knowledge is in children with bipolar disorder. Here I can give advice on dealing with daily events, schools, medication and professionals.
Experience
I am the daughter of a bipolar/schizophrenic parent, am bipolar myself and am raising a bipolar child. I have a background in Psychology from Gannon University, have run several parenting classes for those parenting bipolar children and have had extensive experience with medications, the school system, homeschooling a special needs child, dealing with counselors, doctors and other professionals in the mental health field. I write for a bipolar website, with the focus on educating the child with bipolar disorder on his/her illness.
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.