There are two known kinds of bipolar disorders;Bipolar I disorder is characterized by the occurrence of at least one lifetime episode of mania and, usually, episodes of depression and, Bipolar II disorder is characterized by episodes of both hypo-mania and depression, but no manic episodes. The etiology(causation) is poorly understood and is widely believed to be multi-factorial, i.e. associated with various characterized and uncharacterized factors.

1)Genetics: High incidence among close twins suggests a hitherto unknown genetic factor.
2)Imaging studies have shown abnormalities in certain areas called frontal lobes and caudate nuclei.
3)There has been an evidenced imbalance in certain chemicals inside brain. These are Nor-epinephrine and Serotonin. Tryptophan(a Serotonin precursor) depletion is associated is associated with relapse of symptoms in depression patients previously controlled on drugs.
4)An urban living and low socioeconomic status is associated with an increased incidence.
5)Recent studies show that in adolescents and children who show behavior such as repeated running away from home and physical fighting were 2.6-3.5 times more likely to experience a bipolar II disorder than those with no indication of conduct problems.
6)Various psycho-social factors are also associated with a bipolar disorder but might be difficult to differentiate from an adjustment disorder.

Learn more about this author, Dr Nash.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Causes of bipolar disorder?
We want to hear your view. Write now!