A study of recent life events and their role in the precipitation of mania.

The present study of fifty patients was aimed at determining the prevalence and nature of recent life events and their role in the precipitation of mania. The role of other factors like family history of psychiatric illness and personality temperament were also taken into account. The study showed that 54% of patients with manic episodes had life events in the preceding one month. The commonest type of life event perceived was a financial problem, large loan, marital and family conflicts and damage to property or crops. Perception of life events had a statistically significant relationship with family history of mental illness and educational status.