Bipolar Disorder and Manic Depressive Illness

Scientists do not know exactly what causes bipolar disorder. However, most agree that the condition is due to certain chemical imbalances in the brain. This is why manic depression is considered a real physiological condition and not simply a psychological illness. Episodes of mania or depression can be brought on or aggravated by a combination of the four major factors discussed in the following sections.

Genetic Factors

If there is a history of depression in your family, this can increase your chance of developing bipolar disorder. Scientists believe that there might be genes that can be inherited that make you more susceptible to manic depression. However, just because someone in your family has manic depression does not mean that you will acquire it. Also, many people with bipolar disorder come from families with no history of depression.