A member asked:

If a mom has bipolar disorder and a dad has depression, what are the chances the child will have either problem when he grows up?

10 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Bartholomew Vereb answered

Specializes in Child Psychiatry

Hard to say: The genetic component increases the child's chances. But, the environment, and personality also play a very large role.

Answered 4/17/2016

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Dr. Richard Levenson answered

Specializes in Anxiety Disorders

Depression: With any major mental disorder, having a first degree relative who is afflicted increases the likelihood that children may have some form of the disease, although it certainly is not inevitable.

Answered 1/14/2016

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Dr. Carlos Barrios answered

Specializes in Child Psychiatry

The stats: From the literature: 35% chance if one parent has it. 75% if both parents have it. These are the probabilities. Literature says depression & anxiety push the odds slightly more. Keep in mind that a more stressful environment will play a major role in pushing these probabilities forward. A more stable environment is always protective against gene expression of any genetic vulnerability. take care

Answered 8/8/2014

3.8k views

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