Genetics & Your Risk

While bipolar disorder generally affects less than two percent of the population, it is well-documented that family history is related to risk for the condition. The DSM-IV-TR reports that first degree, biological relatives of individuals with bipolar I disorder have elevated rates of both bipolar I disorder (4%-24%) and bipolar II disorder (1%-5%).

While many people find the idea of a potential genetic influence threatening, it is important to note both the magnitude and variance in the data. With some studies reporting a risk of as low as one percent, people who worry about their own mental health should recognize that clearly other factors are involved in the development of bipolar disorder. While these other variables have not been identified, they are likely related to environmental stressors in one's life.

Gender

Bipolar I disorder appears to be equally common in men and women, although the DSM-IV-TR states that the first episode of illness is more likely to be a manic episode in men and a major depressive episode in women. It is also worth noting that women with bipolar I disorder have an increased risk for depressive episodes in the immediate postpartum period. Therefore, it is important for females who are either pregnant or considering becoming pregnant to speak with their doctors about individual risk and treatment options.

Age

Race and ethnicity do not seem to play a significant role in bipolar disorder. Age, however, is a factor. The average age of onset is about 20 years old for both men and women. Why this is, unfortunately, is not clear. If symptoms appear for the first time after age 40, mental health professionals have been advised to consider the possibility of substance abuse or another medical condition as a possible cause for what may seem like true bipolar disorder.

It is critical to recognize that Bipolar Disorder is both a chronic and a potentially severe illness. About 10 to 15 percent of people with the condition go on to complete suicide, often during episodes of depression. Other issues, such as abuse or other violent behaviors can be associated with a manic episode. Those who experience bipolar disorder at an early age are more likely to have substance abuse issues and, therefore, a poorer prognosis and worse course.

Lower Your Risk

While much of this information may appear frightening, it is not a reason to panic. The overall likelihood of developing bipolar disorder is small and there are treatment options available. If you believe you are at significant risk due to family history, speak with your doctor. While there are no definitive ways to immune yourself from bipolar disorder, there are steps you can take to increase the likelihood of a mentally healthy life. Adequate sleep, cardiovascular exercise, a balanced diet, good stress management skills, limited alcohol use, and a solid social support system are all connected to strong psychological health.

In addition, periodic "mood check-ins"--times where an individual takes a personal inventory of how he or she has felt over the past week or month--can help monitor mental health. In short, unless you have very specific reasons to believe you will develop bipolar disorder, it is much more important to focus on being a mentally healthy person than it is to obsess over unlikely possibilities. In many ways, that is what happiness is all about.