Does Bipolar Disorder run in families?
This is very difficult area, both in terms of the concerns it may raise for family members, and because our understanding of the genetic component is very limited. We can talk about the family incidence of bipolar disorder in only a very general way. Whilst we know that children of people who have bipolar disorder have an increased risk of developing the condition themselves, this needs to be put in context. Overall, the risk that a child with a parent who has the diagnosis will develop it him or herself is put at about 10-15%. The risk is somewhat higher where both parents have the diagnosis, but risks differ depending on different circumstances and, once again, it is difficult to generalize. The risk that siblings of the person with the diagnosis will themselves have children with the condition is very small indeed. Your G.P. can refer you to a genetic counsellor if you wish to discuss your concerns.
