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Causes of Bipolar Mood Disorder

Bipolar disorders are mental illnesses characterized by extreme mood swings. The causes of these mood disorders are unknown, but scientists believe that there are several contributing factors that can lead to the disorder. The environment, heredity and biochemical changes are all believed to play a part in causing bipolar disorders.

  1. Heredity

    • There is some evidence that bipolar disorders run in families. When a member of the family suffers from mood disorders or has attempted suicide, this can increase a person's chances of becoming bipolar, although this happens in only a small percentage of cases.

    Physical Changes of the Brain

    • High-tech images of the brain show that there are physical changes in the brains of people with bipolar disorder. Researches aren't sure how or why this happens.

    Brain Chemistry Changes

    • The brain has numerous biochemicals called neurotransmitters that send messages to the brain. Neurotransmitters like serotonin are associated with mood. Fluctuations in the levels of these chemicals are thought to cause bipolar symptoms in some people.

    Hormonal Changes

    • Studies also show that hormonal changes can affect mood. Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and other essential hormones fluctuate, and this can cause mood changes.

    Environmental Causes

    • Environmental stress factors such as financial problems, job loss, marriage, the birth of a child or a serious illness can trigger bipolar symptoms.

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