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Bipolar Disorder/bipolar disorder
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Question
I would like to know, Why is it that my sister and I both have been diagnosed as being bipolar? Let me give you some family history... Our grandfather was an abusive father to my mother. He killed his self later. After that he was diagnosed. His children my mom and my aunt. My aunt is bipolar my mother is not.
So that's my question why are we bipolar when neither parent is?
Hi Holly,
A bipolar diagnosis is made by a psychiatrist based on criteria listed in either the DSM-IV or ICD-10. You may refer to:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bipolar_disorder
Dr Goldberg, another contributor on this site, has addressed the genetic risk of bipolar disorder in a much earlier correspondence here:
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Bipolar-Disorder-2192/genetic-risk-bipolar.htm
The key is that it's a genetic risk. It's not a given that bipolar patients must have a parent / parents that have the disorder.
I hope that helps.
Take care!
Joanne :-D
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Answers by Expert:
Joanne Chang
Expertise
I can answer questions pertaining to coping well with mental illness, being most familiar with bipolar disorder. I focus on approaching life from a wellness model and strongly believe that, with the right approach (sufficient insight coupled with positive action and adequate support), individuals with bipolar disorder can lead meaningful, purpose-driven lives. I am most happy to help by way of providing clinical information / psychoeducation, practical suggestions, and a third-party (hopefully, objective) point-of-view to increase insight. I am not medically-trained and am therefore not qualified to answer specific prescription-related questions.
Experience
I am an Australian graduate with an Honours degree (Class I) in psychology and plan to eventually pursue a PhD in clinical psychology.
I have for several years been in close contact with patients with bipolar disorder, either as a relative or as a volunteer with various charity arrangements, and would like to provide more support to this group of patients.
Organizations
Singapore Psychological Society (Student member)
Education/Credentials
BCom (Marketing and Information Systems) with Distinction, BA (Psychology), BPsych (Honours, Class I)
Awards and Honors
Golden Key National Honours Society
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