Introduction to Bipolar Disorder

What Causes Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is considered to be a life-long disorder and is thought to stem from a chemical imbalance in the brain which affects how people function emotionally (e.g., experience moods and mood variations). Research indicates that neurotransmitters, chemicals which carry messages within the brain, do not communicate correctly. This causes an imbalance of chemicals that can seriously affect mood. The imbalance may be due to:

• Hereditary factors - Studies indicate that first degree relatives of people diagnosed with bipolar disorder have a significantly higher incidence of mood disorders than found in the general population. Twin studies also indicate a higher than average genetic predisposition for bipolar disorder.

• Environmental and lifestyle factors including stress and significant life events.