Bipolar Disorder/Bipolar in my kids

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Expert: - 12/12/2009


Question
Hi,

After trying to do some research about Bipolar, I've been trying to find out what the chances are that my kids will get Bipolar. I don't have it, but pretty much all of the women on my mom's side of the family have it (including my mom) and to my knowledge no one on my dad's side of the family has bipolar. So, if my significant other doesn't have it and has no family history of it, what are the chances that our children will still get it even though neither of us have it?

Thanks for you help!


Answer
Although there has been sufficient data that demonstrates bipolar disorder is hereditary, there is significant debate on the probability and determining whether the pattern can be traced to paternal or maternal genetics.  Presently, the general consensus is that when one parent has at least one first degree relative with the disorder regardless of whether they have it themselves represents 50% risk of passing it on to their offspring even if the other parent has no prior history and have not been diagnosed with it themselves.  This increases to 75% with two parents that have one or more first degree (blood) relatives who have bipolar, though some argue that this situation only has a 50% possibility under the same conditions.  This group also believes that the condition has only a 25% risk for couples where only one person has a first degree relative with bipolar.

It has been suggested that for families where major depressive disorder is present in one or more first degree relatives and at least one individual who is also linked by blood diagnosed with bipolar could increase the risk as well.  

Regardless of the risks, proper attention to a child as they grow up in order to get adequate medical assessment and if necessary, treatment, will ensure that even with a diagnosis of the disorder they can still lead normal lives.  Whether or not they may have the disorder shouldn't prevent you from being a parent if that is something you want to do.  The decision is a big one - whether bipolar is potentially involved or not - and should always be discussed between the two persons and their feelings about the possibility of being parents together.  Children are a rewarding experience, but even for those who elect not to have biological offspring (or who cannot for medical reasons or other concerns) there are so many children throughout the world who desperately need people to care about them and to be their parents.  It isn't for everyone, but highly rewarding to those who have opened their hearts and homes to care for such children.

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Bipolar Disorder

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Jennifer

Expertise

I am available to answer questions of a general nature about bipolar disorder, provide online resources that address bipolar disorder in a more in-depth manner and sources to serve as a starting point for those looking for substantial information on the illness from a healthcare professional approach. I am not a doctor or a psychiatrist, my background is based in personal experience and extensive reading in my own process of understanding my diagnosis. I can also take questions that deal with the social issues surrounding bipolar disorder such as relationships; coping for family, friends, and the patient; marriage, choosing to start a family and related. Answers to questions of a legal nature will provide general information but anyone with a serious legal problem should consult an attorney licensed to practice in their jurisdiction.

Experience

I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder type II in 2000; as a SSI beneficiary, have experience and knowledge of the limitations and processes involved with the program; I understand the moods, the feelings, the worries, the doubts, and a lot more that there's not enough room to express - from the personal experiences of being bipolar. I have first-hand experience with the challenges of returning to college following hospitalizations and various combinations of medications that were tried before my doctor and I finally arrived at the most effective medication program for my treatment. My family and I have learned so much about each other in the process of dealing with the highs and lows that followed my diagnosis. I've had relationships with someone who also is bipolar and someone that is not - romantic relationships are no easier on either side! I feel that many of the ideas and beliefs that people have regarding bipolar disorder and those who have the condition promote the continuation of social stigmas associated with mental illness in general, and after learning from others with bipolar disorder, hope to guide others who may be trying to navigate the government health care system,& share information on other possible means of obtaining assistance with the cost of medications and/or mental health services and limited financial assistance programs for meeting basic living expenses for qualified individuals, dealing with problems from or with family & loved ones, co-occurring substance abuse problems, medications and side-effects (and when it feels like nothing will work, or why it's not helping the situation to ask whether or not a patient has taken their 'meds' when they seem hostile or moody to those around them).

Education/Credentials
I have a B.A. in Liberal Arts and will earn my J.D. upon completion of the Spring 2011 term after which I will be preparing to take the multi-state bar exam.

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