Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that is often treated through the combined use of medication and psychotherapy. A person with bipolar disorder will experience cycles of mania or hypomania and depression. The cause of bipolar disorder is not fully known, and it is believed that a number of different things, including environmental circumstances, can influence the development of the disorder.
Basics
Genetics is generally thought to play a role in the development of bipolar disorder. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that people who have a parent or sibling with bipolar disorder are four to six times more likely to develop the disorder than people without family members who have it. But most people with a family history of the disorder never develop it, suggesting that while genetics might predispose a person to developing it, if the necessary environmental triggers do not occur, the predisposition will likely never manifest as the disorder. This implies that environment can play a role in the development of bipolar disorder.
Timing
Bipolar disorder does not occur at a specific stage in a person's life. The onset of bipolar disorder triggered by environmental circumstances can manifest early in life or much later. According to Helpguide.org, people often experience their first episode of bipolar disorder during their teenage years or young adult life.
Types
There are a number of environmental circumstances that can trigger the onset of bipolar disorder. MayoClinic.com reports that some examples of environmental causes might include stress, verbal or physical abuse in childhood or as an adult, and the loss of someone or something significant.
Considerations
The experience of drastic or sudden changes in a person's life --- regardless of whether the changes are positive or negative --- can induce the development of bipolar symptoms in those who have the genetic predisposition, notes Helpguide.org. People have been known to develop bipolar disorder after going away to college, getting married or losing a job.
Prevention
A way to prevent bipolar disorder has yet to be determined, but people who have a family history of it can take steps to reduce the risk of developing the disorder. For example, a person might try to form constructive ways to deal with various environmental issues, such as stress, to reduce his chances of developing the disorder. He might also consider consulting a mental health professional to discuss his concerns, determine the likelihood of developing the disorder and decide what action he should take, if any.
