Bipolar Disorder Health Center
Bipolar Disorder in Children and Teens - What Increases Your Risk
Your child's risk of developing bipolar disorder or other mood disorders increases if the child:
- Has a close relative such as a parent, sibling, or grandparent with bipolar disorder or another mood disorder.
- Has a family history of problems with alcohol or drugs. This may be an indication of self-medication for a psychological disorder, such as bipolar disorder.
- Has had several episodes of major depression. At least 15% of adolescents with recurring depression are later diagnosed with bipolar disorder.1
Certain factors can trigger depressive or manic episodes in your child, such as:
- Erratic sleep or changes in daily routines.
- Treatment with antidepressants, which can increase the risk for a manic episode.
- Stressful life events.
- Not taking medicines as prescribed.
- Using alcohol or drugs (substance abuse).
- Entering puberty.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
May 08, 2009
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