Bipolar disorder strikes about two million people in the United States. Both men and women are affected at the same rate. Differing rates of bipolar disorder have not been reported for different races. Although race was once considered a factor for developing bipolar disorder, it did not seem to have an effect when other factors such as socioeconomic status and age were taken into account. Lower socioeconomic status may be slightly linked to a higher rate of bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is more common in those who have a sibling or parent with the illness and in families having several generations affected with mood disorders.
The estimated average age for the onset of bipolar disorder is during the early 20s, although the illness may begin as early as when a child enters elementary school. In fact, the illness appears before age 20 in about one in five manic individuals.
Younger patients first may suffer cyclothymia. Although people with cyclothymia display less intense symptoms, nearly half of them will progress to having a full manic episode. Younger patients who have full manic episodes are called juvenile bipolar patients.
What's Related
- Risk Factors for Bipolar Disorder
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- Talking to a Professional About Bipolar Disorder
- How is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed?
- Talking to a Doctor About Bipolar Disorder
- How Bipolar Disorder is Diagnosed
- Prevention of Bipolar Disorder
- Treatment of Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression)
- Frequently Asked Questions about Bipolar Disorder
- Anthony’s Story with Bipolar Disorder
