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Bipolar Disorder/aunt with BP disorder
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Question
Hi Joyce!
I have a BP aunt who was diagnosed about twelve years ago.
She was not diagnosed until her early twenties when she was in college and lead a BP disorder free life up until that point. My question is what exactly triggers BP disorder in a person and is BP disorder hereditary through aunts or uncles?
Thank you!
-Cindy
Hi Cindy!
Many times bipolar disorder does not show up until the late teen/early 20s. The pre-disposition for the disorder is born in a person. What usually brings it to the open is some type of extreme stress. Often, individuals of this age are starting college or life on their own. This is the type of stress that may bring symptoms into the open if this is difficult for the individual.
With an aunt having bipolar disorder, the risk to any children you have is only increased slightly; less than five percent. The greatest inheritable line is through parents and grandparents. If there is not indication of bipolar disorder in these individuals, I would say the likelihood of any of your children inheriting it would be very small.
Joyce A. Anthony
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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.
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