Expert: Joyce A. Anthony - 2/3/2007

Question
Joyce,
Thank you so very much for your answer.  The baby's mother has not been diagnosed bi polar, but is still only 19 YO, and I understand many bipolar diagnoses come in the mid 20's.  Am I correct that environment also plays a large part in the disease.  Is it probable that someone may be genetically predisposed to BPD, but it is not "activated" by the environmental forces?
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
Hi,
I am considering the adoption of an infant who's grandfather and great grandfather are bipolar.  Grandmother is an alcoholic.  Mother not afflicted with any of the above.  Would this child be especially at risk for bipolar disorder?

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Hi Ann:

If this baby's mother and father are not bipolar, it's chances of becoming bipolar are only at about ten percent.  If, however, the father is also bipolar--you didn't mention that--the chances will increase another twenty-five percent.  Even then, that would make the chance of the baby being bipolar only at 35 percent.
         Joyce A. Anthony

Answer
You are very welcome, Ann:

Yes, environment can play a part in bipolar disorder.  A person is born with the disorder, but it often takes a major stressor to bring it to the surface.  That is why many people don't show signs until their late teens or early twenties, when they are first getting out on their own and experiencing adult responsibilities.

It is very possible, that even if this child is pre-disposed
to bipolar disorder, he will not show any signs before adulthood, providing there are no severe stressors growing up.

Keep in mind, however, that one child may find something extremely stressful and another not.  The simple act of going to school for the first time can be stressful for some children.  A lot of things adults take for granted can create stress in a child.
         Joyce A. Anthony