Bipolar disorder (BD) tends to run in families. But environment can also play a role.
There isn’t a single “bipolar gene,” so it’s not something that can be revealed through genetic testing. Instead, providers rely on personal and family history to assess your risk.
If you’re concerned that a loved one might have BD, you can offer support through gathering family history, approaching the topic with sensitivity, and offering to help them find a provider.
Experts are yet to understand what causes bipolar disorder (BD). But it appears to have a strong genetic component. Studies show that if you have a parent or sibling with BD, you’re 5 to 10 times more likely [1] to develop it than the general population.
More research is needed to better understand how and why this happens. But understanding the role genetics play in BD can help you get the mental health support you need.
Which genetic factors play a role in bipolar disorder?
We haven’t identified a single “bipolar gene.” But researchers have discovered certain chromosomal patterns [1] that seem to appear more frequently in people who have BD.
You can “inherit” these patterns from family members, just like other traits are passed down. This may be why, when measuring across populations, genetics accounts for about 60%–90% [1] of the variation in who will or won’t develop BD.
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What role does your environment play?
It’s clear that genetics play a role in BD. But your environment can also affect your mental health.
Studies show that the following factors [2] can increase your risk of BD:
Being exposed to infections while you were still in the womb
Being born prematurely or having a low birth weight
Having a traumatic birth
Increased maternal stress, especially during the first trimester
Using substances like cannabis, cocaine, and other drugs
Surviving adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) like abuse, neglect, or parental loss
Having a traumatic brain injury
Can you prevent passing bipolar disorder on to your kids?
Like other mental health concerns, you can’t prevent passing on mental health conditions that are linked to your genes. Our genetics aren’t something we can control. However, you can reduce the impact of BD if you inherit it.
For example, if you know that you or your child is at increased risk of developing BD, don’t wait until you notice problematic symptoms to seek an evaluation. Early detection and intervention can help prevent symptoms from escalating. It can also help people learn healthy coping skills sooner. These proactive steps can make it easier to manage the challenges brought on by BD.
Is there a genetic test for bipolar disorder?
Each year, genetic tests become more advanced. But as of now, we haven’t isolated a single gene or exact set of genes that causes BD.
This means that, unfortunately, it’s not something you can test for [3]. Assessing your family and personal history may be a more reliable way to gauge your risk of developing BD.
Getting support for your family
If someone in your family is potentially showing signs of BD, you’re probably concerned about their well-being. But at the same time, you might not be sure what you can do to help. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), BD symptoms typically show up around age 25 [4].
While you can’t force someone to get treatment, you can still offer support. Consider these tips:
Gather information. Knowing the history of mental health conditions in your family can help your loved one’s providers get a clearer picture of their risk of BD and other conditions. You don’t have to know every single detail. But gathering this information for your loved one can help them feel more prepared to access care.
Choose your words wisely. If you want to have a conversation with a loved one about BD, be intentional. Before diving in, ask their permission. For example, you can say something like, “I’ve noticed that you haven’t quite been yourself lately, and I’m worried about your mental health. Can we talk about what I’ve noticed and see if we can come up with a plan to get you some help?”
Respect their boundaries. Mental health can be a sensitive topic. You loved one might be resistant to talking about it — or even feel ashamed. If they’re not ready for a conversation, you can let them know that you care and are available when they want to talk. You might also ask if it’s OK to check back in in a few days, if that feels appropriate.
Do some research. If your loved one is willing to get professional support, offer to help them find a provider. This can be an overwhelming process. So you can help them take this step by looking for providers who specialize in BD or other mood disorders who accept your loved one’s insurance. You can also offer to help with practical or logistical concerns like rides to appointments, child care, and more.
One way I help families reframe fear about passing down BD is by shifting the focus from trying to prevent something they can’t control to building skills, awareness, and support that reduces risk and improves outcomes if symptoms ever appear.
Ashley Ayala, LMFT
Clinical reviewer
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We don’t yet fully understand what causes BD, but we do know it’s often passed down in families. Certain stressors like adverse childhood experiences, traumatic birth, substance use, and prenatal exposure to illness may also increase your risk. If you’re concerned that a family member might have BD, you can support them by approaching this topic with sensitivity, gathering family information, and helping them find a provider.
At Rula, we’re here to help you feel better. Rula makes it easy to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who takes your insurance. That way, you don’t have to choose between great care and a price you can afford.
Rula patients pay about $15 per session with insurance, and 93% say they feel better after getting care through Rula. We have 21,000+ providers, and appointments are available as soon as tomorrow. We’re here to help you take the next step — wherever you are in your mental health journey.
References
- A Brief Overview of the Genetics of Bipolar Disorder https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/foc.5.1.14
- The role of environmental exposures as risk factors for bipolar disorder: A systematic review of longitudinal studies https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032715309939
- Towards the First Biomarker Test for Bipolar Spectrum Disorder: An Evaluation of 199 Patients in an Outpatient Setting https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10381128/
- Bipolar Disorder https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-conditions/bipolar-disorder/
Liz Talago
Liz Talago, M.ed. is a mental health professional turned content writer and strategist based in the Detroit metro area. As an independent consultant for mental health organizations, Liz creates meaningful connections between brands and their audiences through strategic storytelling. Liz is known for championing diverse perspectives within the mental health industry and translating bold ideas into inspiring, affirming digital experiences.
In her free time, you can find her hiking with her two German Shepherds, puttering around her dahlia garden, or spending time with her family.
Ashley Ayala, LMFT
Ashley is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in generational healing and family dynamics. Ashley has worked in schools, clinics, and in private practice. She believes that people’s relationships, including our relationship with ourselves, greatly shape our experiences in life.
Ashley is committed to empowering others to show up authentically and deepen their self understanding. This passion stems from taking a critical lens on her own life story and doing inner healing. One of her favorite quotes is “Be yourself and the right people will love the real you.”
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