Childhood adversity is related to an increased risk of developing mental disorders such as major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, affective problems, anxiety, personality disorders, and suicide. Bipolar disorder and depression are mental disorders that have been particularly associated with childhood abuse. The fact that there is a link between affective illnesses and childhood adversity emphasizes the need for proper assessment for bipolar disorder when these patients present with either depression or mood instability, and that these conditions, when identified, require effective treatment.
Keywords: bipolar disorder, childhood adversity