Living with a mental health condition can feel hard at times. One aspect that’s often overlooked is answers about what causes these conditions, and how one can help oneself when experiencing them. Often, there is stigma and misinformation to weed through to get help. Bipolar disorder is an example of a well-studied disorder that is not widely understood by the public. One question that often arises is how bipolar disorder starts and is bipolar disorder genetic. Although we now have more information than ever on mental illnesses, the answer to this isn’t totally clear.
If you’re looking for more information on bipolar disorder or looking for bipolar disorder treatment near me, contact us today at Santé Center for Healing using 866.238.3154 to learn more about our options for bipolar treatment.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by energy, behavior, and mood shifts. Commonly reported in late childhood and early adulthood, those living with bipolar disorder experience intense highs and trench-like lows relating to their mood. These highs are referred to as manic episodes, whereas the lows are considered depressive episodes. Manic episodes include extreme bouts of energy, inability to sleep, agitation, and heightened activity.
Bipolar 2, a form of bipolar disorder, can create hypomanic episodes, a less severe form of a manic episode. Depressed episodes stand in stark contrast to manic episodes. They are characterized by low levels of energy, feelings of dread, and despair and can negatively affect an individual’s ability to perform daily tasks and obligations.
Both manic and depressive episodes can co-occur and may include psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions. This would necessitate a bipolar 1 diagnosis, and can be very difficult to navigate. One can also experience mixed episodes, where both manic and depressive symptoms occur at the same time.
Bipolar 2 disorder consists of less intense manic episodes (hypomania) and depressive episodes. Many often cite BP2 as less intense or less severe, however it has a higher rate of suicidality due to the longer duration of depressive episodes.
Cyclothymic disorder consists of hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes less severe than bipolar one or bipolar 2. While considered a less severe form of bipolar, it still carries with it stigma and dangerous symptoms if left untreated.
Is Bipolar Disorder Genetic?
Is bipolar disorder genetic? The answer is maybe, however, all existing evidence points to a genetic component involved in the disorder. However, that does not mean someone who does not have a relative with bipolar disorder will not develop the disorder themselves. Rather, it indicates that those with a close relative suffering from bipolar disorder are more likely to develop the disorder than those who do not. As of right now, the exact inheritance pattern is unclear. That is why it is of the utmost importance that everyone knows the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder so that they may seek treatment as early as possible. The symptoms of bipolar disorder are:
Manic episodes
- Increased energy levels
- Abnormally active
- Feeling jittery or jumpy
- Racing thoughts
- Agitation
- Inability to sleep
- Distractibility
- Racing thoughts
Depressive episodes
- Depressed mood
- Lack of interest
- Isolation
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Low energy
- Feelings of dread and
worthlessness - Decreased ability in concentration
- Suicidal thoughts
So, is bipolar disorder genetic? Yes, it can be. Bipolar disorder can worsen over time, and it is essential that those suffering from these symptoms reach out to a medical professional before they become more severe.
Find Bipolar Disorder Treatment at the Santé Center for Healing
For the past quarter century, the Santé Center for Healing has demonstrated a level of care and excellence. Our curriculum includes the most modern therapeutic techniques provided in our state-of-the-art facility on our 16-acre campus. For more information on the relationship between bipolar disorder and genetics, contact our facility, or schedule an appointment today at 866.238.3154.
