Causes of bipolar disorder

There isn’t a clear cause of bipolar disorder. Research has shown that it’s often a combination of factors that will make it more likely for bipolar disorder to develop.

  • Genetics: 9% of people who have a close family member with bipolar disorder will develop it themselves. The risk is higher if both of your parents or if your twin lives with bipolar disorder
  • Environmental factors: Stressful or traumatic events, such as childhood abuse, can make the chances of developing depressive episodes higher and trigger symptoms of bipolar disorder.

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