Is Bipolar Disorder Genetic?

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition characterized by unpredictable, often extreme changes in mood, behavior, thinking, and energy levels, which can have significant impacts on daily functioning. Episodes of mania and depression are unpredictable and can last for hours, days, weeks, or months. The exact causes of bipolar disorder are unknown, but research confirms a genetic component, meaning that bipolar disorder can run in families. 

At The Ranch, we understand that it can feel frightening to receive a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Still, receiving an accurate diagnosis also means that you can get the treatment you need. Our experienced, compassionate treatment team provides guidance and support while helping clients stabilize their symptoms and learn to manage bipolar effectively. Call 888.486.3821 to see if our bipolar disorder treatment program is right for you or your loved one. 

Understanding the Types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder has a range of symptoms that can vary significantly between people and even within the same person, which is part of what makes accurate diagnosis so complicated. This irregularity also makes it difficult for people with bipolar disorder and their loved ones to understand and know how to manage the disease without professional interventions. 

The following are the main types of bipolar disorder:

• Bipolar I – Recognized as the most severe form of bipolar, Bipolar I is characterized by at least one manic episode that lasts for at least one week. Hospitalization is often required.
• Bipolar II – This type of bipolar consists of a pattern of at least one depressive and one hypomanic episode that lasts at least four days. Hypomania is a milder form of mania. Depressive episodes are more severe and usually last longer.
• Cyclothymic disorder – Periods of hypomanic and depressive episodes that last for more than two years but are not as extreme as in bipolar I or bipolar II. 

Other less common types of bipolar disorder include unspecified bipolar, rapid cycling bipolar, bipolar with seasonal patterns, and bipolar disorder with mixed features, where depression and mania co-occur.

Many people with bipolar disorder go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years, which can create skepticism about the effectiveness of treatment. It is easy to understand why individuals who have experienced ineffective treatment would be wary of it. Still, it is vital to recognize that bipolar disorder is highly treatable when accurately diagnosed. 

Symptoms of Mania and Depression

While there is no cure for bipolar disorder, effective treatment helps clients learn to manage symptoms to live healthy and fulfilling lives. Episodes of mania and depression can be unpredictable, making life feel chaotic. Learning to recognize the manic and depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder can help identify the onset of an episode and be better prepared to manage it. 

Common Mania Symptoms

Some frequently-occurring symptoms of mania associated with bipolar include:

• Increased energy and feeling overly elated or hyper
• Difficulty concentrating or being easily distracted
• Decreased need for sleep
• Fast talking with racing thoughts
• Restlessness and impulsivity
• Having overconfidence in abilities

People with bipolar may also engage in risky behaviors that have adverse consequences for themselves and others around them.

Common Depression Symptoms

Some symptoms of depression that may occur with bipolar include:

• Feelings of hopelessness and despair that last at least two weeks
• Difficulty with memory, concentration, and decision-making
• Extreme fatigue and lack of energy
• Changes in appetite resulting in significant weight gain or loss
• Lack of interest in typically enjoyable activities
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Preoccupation with death or suicidal thoughts

A common reason that bipolar disorder is misdiagnosed so often is that people tend to seek help only when experiencing a depressive episode. Mania is frequently not recognized but can be dangerous and highly destructive. During manic episodes, someone with bipolar is more likely to harm themselves, harm others, or have encounters with the law. 

Call Today to Talk with a Team Member at The Ranch

Bipolar disorder is lifelong but can be well-managed with effective treatment. Many individuals with bipolar disorder have co-occurring substance use disorders (SUD) because they rely on drugs or alcohol for symptom relief. 

At The Ranch, we understand the challenges of living with bipolar disorder. Our experienced treatment team can provide an accurate diagnosis to ensure personalized treatment with lasting outcomes. We offer dual diagnosis treatment for clients in need.

Call 888.486.3821 to talk with a team member today about bipolar disorder treatment for yourself or a loved one.  You can also complete our online form to get started.