Understanding why bipolar disorder develops can be an important step toward recovery, so what actually causes it? While there’s currently no known single cause, research has identified several key risk factors for developing bipolar disorder, including genetics, brain chemistry, and environment.
Whether you’ve been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, suspect you may have it, or are just curious why it develops, this article can help you better understand the causes. On this page, we’ll explore:
What bipolar disorder is
Life naturally comes with highs and lows: it’s all part of being human. But bipolar disorder isn’t a fleeting mood swing triggered by changing circumstances – it’s a complex and more intense emotional shift.
You may have heard bipolar disorder previously referred to as “manic depression” or “manic-depressive disorder.” However, bipolar disorder is the clinically correct term for this condition as it reflects symptoms more accurately and reduces the stigma associated with the older terms.
Bipolar disorder doesn’t describe just one condition; there are actually three separate conditions on the bipolar spectrum, which are:6
Bipolar I: Experiencing depressive episodes lasting at least two weeks and manic episodes that either last at least one week or are so severe that you need to attend a hospital for care. Mixed moods are also possible.
The good news is that bipolar disorder can be treated effectively with a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, allowing you to lead a fulfilling and more balanced life.
Understanding how bipolar disorder happens can help you see things more clearly and treat yourself with extra compassion and kindness. Therefore, the following sections explore the risk factors associated with both bipolar disorder and bipolar mood episodes triggers.
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Over two-thirds of people with bipolar disorder have at least one close relative who also has the condition or has major depression.
Clearly, this research indicates a strong link between family history and bipolar disorder development. However, it’s important to remember that there is no guarantee that you will develop bipolar disorder if a relative has it. The causes of bipolar disorder are complex and varied, with brain chemistry and environmental triggers also playing a role.
Research tells us that the brain chemistry bipolar disorder exhibits may differ in terms of neurotransmitter imbalances (specifically dopamine and serotonin) and other brain signals responsible for regulating mood. Also, studies have found differences in the actual brain structure between people with and without bipolar disorder. Furthermore, there are links between the condition’s progression and a person’s immune function, oxidative stress, and impaired cellular resilience.7,8,12,13
But what does this really mean?
Essentially, bipolar disorder may develop due to a fundamental difference in brain structure and the chemicals involved with mood regulation.
So having bipolar disorder isn’t your fault, and there isn’t anything you’ve done “wrong.” Biological factors play a big part in the causes of bipolar disorder. Another risk factor for developing bipolar disorder is environmental stress, which is explored in more detail next.
One risk factor that hasn’t yet been discussed is adverse circumstances or environmental factors. While life-altering events may not be direct causes of bipolar disorder, they can trigger symptoms in people already predisposed to this condition.1,4
Adverse life experiences could include distressing events like:1,9,14
Death of a loved one
Furthermore, over 60% of adults with bipolar disorder report experiencing at least one stressful life event before having a manic or depressive episode.7 And, although unexpected stresses cannot typically be avoided due to their nature, understanding these triggers may help you prepare for potential episodes.
As you may be able to tell, the causes of bipolar disorder are complex. However, one thing many people wonder is whether having another mental health condition makes you more likely to develop bipolar disorder. Therefore, the next section focuses on mental health risk factors.
Many people have more than one mental health condition at a time. In fact, up to 70% of people with bipolar disorder also meet the criteria for another psychiatric disorder, such as anxiety disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or an eating disorder.6,7
This may be due to some of the risk factors for bipolar disorder also being common factors for developing other mental health conditions, like anxiety.9 Additionally, data shows that having co-occurring conditions can lead to more frequent and severe symptoms in bipolar disorder.7
So, although co-occurring conditions are common in people with bipolar disorder, they aren’t necessarily what triggers it.
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Bipolar disorder is often diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 24 years and 45 and 54 years
There’s no question that bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition that can detrimentally affect daily life and functioning. While understanding mood disorder causes can reduce stigma and encourage compassion, recognizing the symptoms of bipolar disorder is crucial for accessing the treatment needed to manage it.
With this in mind, the following section covers the signs of bipolar disorder to watch for so that early intervention can be provided.
Episodes often last for a week or more, and symptoms may look like:6
Regardless of your risk factors for developing bipolar disorder, if the above symptoms sound familiar, they may indicate this condition. Remember that bipolar disorder can be very effectively treated and managed with the right support.
Bipolar disorder treatment often involves a combination of approaches, including:1
Medications: Mood stabilizers and antipsychotics can be used to manage manic episodes, while antidepressants may be used to ease symptoms during periods of depression
A Mission For Michael (AMFM) provides treatment for adults experiencing various conditions. Bipolar Disorder support is a phone call away – call 866-478-4383 to learn about our current treatment options.
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Understanding the causes of bipolar disorder can be empowering and encourage people to seek early support. If you recognize some of the signs of bipolar disorder within yourself, know that effective treatment and support are available.
Here at AMFM, we provide a safe, structured environment designed to help you manage your moods and focus on long-term recovery from bipolar disorder. With 24/7 support, personalized treatment plans, compassionate care, and evidence-based approaches, our residential programs in California, Virginia, and Washington are here to support you when you are ready.
Reach out to us today to take the next step toward recovery and a more stable future.
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