Several common myths about bipolar disorder contribute to the lack of understanding and acceptance surrounding this condition. Those who are diagnosed often find themselves struggling to accept this diagnosis and reach out for much-needed care and support due to the myths surrounding the topic. It is crucial to identify these myths and highlight why they are untrue to shed light on the reality of this condition.
The Importance of Addressing Bipolar Disorder Myths
Several common misconceptions about bipolar disorder feed into the stigma that is so prevalent surrounding this mental health condition. It is a life-changing diagnosis and without the right treatment and support the individuals who struggle with it can experience major impacts to their day-to-day lifestyle. Addressing the bipolar disorder myths is crucial to helping alleviate some of the false narratives, clearing a path for acceptance and healing.
Myth 1: Bipolar Disorder Is Just Mood Swings
The first of the myths about bipolar disorder is that it is just mood swings. While this symptom characterizes the condition, it is not the whole picture. Bipolar disorder has several other symptoms, all of which can make daily life extremely difficult. During manic episodes, the individual may experience. Elevated or irritable mood, increased energy and restlessness, racing thoughts, rapid speech, and impulsivity or risky behaviors like excessive spending. During the depressive moods associated with bipolar disorder, the individual may experience difficulty concentrating, thoughts of self-harm or suicide, fatigue or loss of energy, and persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
Myth 2: Bipolar l Is Less Severe Than Bipolar ll
This is another of the myths that contribute to the bipolar disorder stigma. The main difference between Bipolar I and Bipolar II is the intensity of the manic episodes the individual experiences. The individual still experiences other symptoms that can impact their daily life, and make it difficult to complete their normal daily tasks. While the manic episodes of Bipolar I may be more intense, it does not classify this bipolar type as more severe.
Myth 3: People with Bipolar Disorder Can’t Lead Normal Lives
Depression can be a life-altering symptom of bipolar that can lead to changes in the individual’s personality. However, this is one of the myths about bipolar disorder that can be extremely detrimental. A bipolar diagnosis does not mean that they are unable to lead a normal life. With proper care and support, the impacts of bipolar disorder can be minimized, making daily life easier for those with the condition.
Myth 4: Bipolar Disorder and Depression Are the Same Thing
This is just false. Bipolar disorder is characterized by symptoms of extreme mania and depression, however bipolar and depression are not the same thing. Depression is a symptom of the larger picture, which is bipolar.
Myth 5: Bipolar Disorder Is Caused by a Weak Personality
Mental health conditions are not caused by a weak personality. These are chemical imbalances within the brain that can be managed and treated to minimize the impacts. With professional care and support the symptoms of this condition can be monitored and treated, helping the individual learn how to self-soothe the symptoms and live a normal everyday life.
Myth 6: Medication Is the Only Treatment for Bipolar Disorder
The treatment for this condition is multi-faceted. Individuals who are struggling with bipolar disorder may get prescribed medication to help with mood stabilization. However, individual therapy can be implemented to assist the individual in learning healthy ways of coping with residual symptoms that arise after medication is administered.
Myth 7: Bipolar Disorder Only Affects Adults
Mental health conditions aren’t age-specific. This is one of the common misconceptions about bipolar disorder that leads to undiagnosed bipolar, especially in children. It is crucial to seek professional help if symptoms of this condition are present because getting the necessary help can help minimize the impacts sooner rather than later. This is one of the myths about bipolar disorder that should be ignored so that necessary care can be administered.
Myth 8: Mania Is Just Feeling Extremely Happy
Mania can be a life-altering experience. Mania goes far beyond just feeling extremely happy. Manic episodes could present themselves differently for each individual experiencing them. Some may exhibit extreme happiness, while others tend to engage in risky behaviors and neglect sleep and rest because of racing thoughts. Mania can lead to major impacts on the individual’s life.
Myth 9: People with Bipolar Disorder Are Always Unpredictable
While unpredictable behavior may occur, this is generally more common when the condition is left untreated. With proper care and support the individual could live such a normal lifestyle that those around them may not even be able to tell they struggle with bipolar disorder. This condition is manageable and treatable, not everyone who struggles with it will show signs of unpredictability, particularly those who have professional support.
Myth 10: Bipolar Disorder Is Rare
One of the most detrimental of the myths about bipolar disorder is that it is rare. This condition is more common than people may think. It may seem rare due to the bipolar disorder stigma, and lack of conversation surrounding the topic. However, this condition can affect anyone at any time, leading to major impacts. Reaching out for proper care and support is crucial to minimizing these impacts.
Spreading Awareness and Supporting Those with Bipolar Disorder
The bipolar disorder myths are extremely detrimental to those who struggle with this condition. Bipolar is difficult enough to live with without the false narratives clouding the individual’s mind, and these myths can lead to a lack of care and support that is needed to succeed. If you or a loved one are struggling with bipolar disorder, help is available. At Healthy Minds we strive to provide a healing and supportive environment for those struggling to begin finding relief. Call us today and begin a journey of happiness and support.
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