In patients who have suffered childhood trauma, Bipolar Disorder is associated with an earlier age at onset of the disease, a worse clinical course, a greater number of suicide attempts, a greater prevalence of rapid cycling, which is the cruelest form of the disease, higher number of episodes and higher incidence of alcohol and substance abuse.
Of the children of bipolar mothers, less than 40% lived with their parents, 90% were present in episodes of crisis, more than 30% were exposed to risks such as physical and psychological abuse and even witnessed suicide attempts.
This highly stressful environment can trigger the disease if there is a genetic predisposition. Aware that brain development starts from the second week of pregnancy and continues until the end of the prefrontal cortex development, around the age of 25, we can imagine how a child who develops in such a stressful environment can have its compromised development, since the environment is a very important factor in their formation.
The experiences we live structurally and functionally shape our neurons, which adapt to the needs of the environment. This is what we call Neuronal Plasticity. This plasticity is much greater during childhood, at the same time it is much more sensitive to environmental influences.
The main functions that can be compromised when the child is subjected to harmful environments, in addition to Bipolar Disorder itself, are memory, language, executive functions, attention and perception.
Therefore, you can already see how severe the consequences can be, and knowing a little about them, we can be aware of ourselves and our acquaintances and family members, to help protect these children.
Observing, talking, offering help to a mother in these conditions can make all the difference in the lives of mother and child.
