Bipolar Disorder: Did You Know?

70% of persons with two bipolar parents will be bipolar
Untreated bipolar disorder will worsen over time becoming more frequent and severe
Bipolar often begins with depression
Antidepressants can induce a manic response in a person that is bipolar
Bipolar is a serious disorder with a 15% rate of suicide
5-8% of the population have a bipolar spectrum disorder
The average age of onset is 15-19
Bipolar disorder is not diagnosed on average for 9-10 years
20% of those with bipolar disorder have panic disorder
25% of those depressed are bipolar
48% of those with bipolar disorder consult 3 or more professionals before receiving correct diagnosis Bipolar disorder can be caused by head injury, substance abuse or genetics
Substance abuse or dependence is more likely during mania
70% of bipolars that stay up all night become manic the next day