Bipolar disorder can be caused by hormonal imbalances, brain factors, genetics, natural brain chemicals, and environmental factors. Hormones can trigger episodes of bipolar symptoms, while physical changes in the brain and neurotransmitters can contribute to its development. Genetics and environmental factors, such as traumatic events or drug use, may also play a role.
The causes of bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive disorder, can be difficult to pinpoint. This is because the origins of mental health problems are sometimes more difficult to assess than those of a physical nature. Scientists believe there are several things that can cause bipolar disorder, contribute to its development, or help trigger its episodes. They include hormonal imbalances, natural chemicals in the brain, and genetics. Scientists also believe that physical changes in a person’s brain may be responsible, and that environmental factors may also have a role to play in its development.
Hormones and hormonal imbalances are commonly thought to be possible causes of bipolar disorder and can cause or trigger episodes of bipolar symptoms; such imbalances, for example, are commonly associated with triggering the depression that marks the depressive phase of bipolar disorder. Hormonal changes can also trigger the highs of emotion and energy that mark the manic phase.
Brain factors are also among the causes of bipolar disorder. Scientists have found that people who have bipolar disorder typically have physical changes in the brain. For example, those with bipolar disorder may have smaller cerebellums. Scientists are still studying how and why physical changes to the brain can cause or contribute to bipolar disorder.
Natural brain chemicals called neurotransmitters can also contribute to the development of bipolar disorder. These chemicals help control the normal functioning of the brain. When these chemicals are out of balance, symptoms of bipolar disorder can occur. For example, a neurotransmitter called norepinephrine can affect the emotional ups and downs typical of this condition. When norepinephrine levels are higher than normal, a person can experience mania; low levels can trigger the depressive phase.
Genetics can also be a factor in the development of bipolar disorder. When a person has a relative who has bipolar disorder, they may be more likely to develop it. Part of bipolar research involves trying to determine which genes may play a role in its development. Closer genetic relationships can translate into a person being more likely to inherit the genetic traits that cause or contribute to the development of bipolar disorder.
Many scientists also believe that environmental factors are among the causes of bipolar disorder. For example, a traumatic event can trigger its onset in some people. Others may also develop the condition after using drugs. Strong emotional stress, in the presence of other factors that appear to influence bipolar disorder, can also contribute to its development.
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