Can disorders such as bipolar disorder be passed down from the parents to the child? Liana
Thank you for your question Liana. In psychology the theory that is most commonly used to describe intergenerational transmission of mental health conditions is called the diathesis-stress model. This model proposes that there are two main reasons for the development of mental health problems. The diathesis part means there is a pre-disposition or vulnerability to develop certain kinds of mental health problems. These can include genetic, biological, or inherited factors. Generally, in families there may be a higher likelihood or a tendency towards a certain type of mental health concern. In a similar way in some families there may be a tendency towards being taller. This does not mean everyone in the family is tall, but it may be more likely that a person, born in that family, is tall. The stress part of the model proposes that stressful life experiences particularly adverse childhood experiences lead to a higher likelihood that someone will experience mental health concerns. Another way this model is described is as nature-nurture. This means that part of who we become is due to our nature or genetics and part due to the way we are nurtured or cared for particularly by our parents. In order for someone to develop mental health concerns there is usually an interplay between these two factors.
In terms of inheriting a bipolar disorder from your parents there is still not a clear consensus on the genetic predisposition for a bipolar disorder but research has found it to be around 5-10% for a first degree relative (this would include parents) and 40-70% for a monozygotic (identical) twin. However, the genetics that lead to bipolar are complex and it is still not completely understood exactly which genes or which combinations of genes lead to actual symptoms. Many people who would be considered “at-risk” due to their genetics do not have symptoms of a bipolar disorder.
To summarise, if you have a first degree relative who has a bipolar disorder there is a slightly higher likelihood you may develop these symptoms, however your environment also plays an important role. Trying to decrease stress, having good social supports and processing traumatic events you have experienced can help you to maintain your mental health.
There are many good evidence-based psychological therapies for bipolar disorders. There is good research evidence that cognitive-behavioural therapy and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy as well as psychoeducation are all effective treatments. These therapies are often used in conjunction with medications for bipolar disorders.
