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Age at onset

What is age at onset and bipolar disorder?

Differences observed in the age at onset of bipolar disorder may be influenced by genetic and/or environmental factors. Understanding these factors could lead to better understanding of the disorder, early identification, and improved intervention strategies for patients.

What is the evidence for age at onset of bipolar disorder?

Moderate quality evidence suggests the median age at onset of bipolar disorder is around 33 years old. Moderate to high quality evidence finds a trimodal distribution, with 45% of people with bipolar disorder showing an early-onset age (~17 years), 35% showing a mid-onset age (~26 years), and 20% showing a late-onset age (~42 years).

High quality evidence shows younger age at onset is associated with increased severity of depression. Moderate to high quality evidence finds younger age at onset is associated with having a personality disorder or longer delays to treatment. Moderate quality evidence finds younger age at onset is associated with suicide attempts, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders. There were no associations between younger age at onset and severity of mania symptoms, first polarity being mania, psychotic symptoms, rapid cycling, or mixed bipolar episodes.

March 2022

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Last updated at: 2:34 pm, 27th March 2022
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Fact Sheet Technical Commentary
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