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A 40-year-old member asked:

What happens if a parent suffered major depressive disorder- are the risks the same for the child to suffer either bipolar or depression?

2 doctor answers4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Anthony Vertino
Clinical Psychology 25 years experience
Not exactly: Predispositions toward depression and bipolar disorder would be present, but not necessarily at the same level as for the parent. Resiliency plays a strong role in the manifestation of any disorder.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Carlos Barrios
Child Psychiatry 25 years experience
Here are some number: One parent with bipolar disorder -> 35% chance child will have Two parent with ....bpd-> 75% chance one child will have With only depression in the parental lines the chances are much lower but there is research showing eventually genes for depression may have a common source and therefore chance is no zero. Again, so important to know both parternal and maternal psychiatric history. take care
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Nov 27, 2017

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