How Important Is Family History In Determining My Risk For Developing Bipolar Disorder?

Question: How important is family history in determining my risk for developing bipolar disorder?

Answer: Family history most definitely is a risk factor for the development of bipolar illness.

For an individual with a family member who suffers from bipolar illness, their risk of developing bipolar illness is seven times greater than that for a person who does not have a family history of bipolar illness among a first-degree relative.

Related

ABC News OnCall+ Bipolar Disorder Center Home Page

More ABC News Stories/Videos On Bipolar Disorder

OnCall+ Wellness Center

Next: Do I Have An Increased Risk Of Bipolar Disorder If A Parent, Grandparent Or Sibling Has Bipolar Disorder?

Previous: What Do I Do If I Think A Friend Or Family Member Has Bipolar Disorder?