What are the causes of bipolar disorder?

What are the causes of bipolar disorder?

The cause of bipolar disorder is not yet known. However, there are a number of factors involved, these include:

  • Genetics – If you have a relative of the first degree, being either a parent or sibling, who has been diagnosed with the condition, research suggests that your chances of having the condition are increased. However, research is still being conducted as to whether genes have a direct role to play in the disorder. However, some studies have shown that in identical twins, one has been diagnosed as bipolar, with the other not showing any symptoms of the condition. Hence, more research is still to be done so as to confirm if genes do in fact play a prominent role.
  • Biological differences – If you have bipolar disorder, your brain will show physical changes. How significant these changes are is still unknown, but further research done can help to identify the causes.
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