It is a severe brain disorder that is characterized by mutability in mood. These mood swings may impact a person’s thinking abilities. Like ways of behaving, and their ability to get things done. It is imperative to know about bipolar disorder. Because it is a largely misdiagnosed illness as a result of the myths in its society. So in this article you will learn what bipolar disorder is, demystify some myths. And gain the essential facts about this condition.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar Disorder which is formerly manic-depressive illness is a mental health disorder. It is characterized by erratic mood, energy, and activity swings and the capacity to execute daily tasks. Bipolar illnesses are of various types. But the common factor is the occurrence of shifts of mood swings. That affect work, relations and general functioning.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Manic Episodes:
- Passionate, elated, and requiring little food and sleep to function.
- Such as uncontrollable impulses of delusions of grandiosities or god like feeling of being invincible.
- It presents with racing thoughts, impulsivity and poor decision making.
Depressive Episodes:
- Pervasive feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and/or worthlessness – for at least two weeks in a row.
- Decreased motivation on things that used to be interesting.
- Problems with focus, sleep or otherwise reaching good conclusions.
Common Misconceptions About Bipolar Disorder
In bipolar disorder, there are many misconceptions and stigma surrounding the disease. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths:
Bipolar Disorder Is Like Having “Mood Swings” Like Everybody Else
Myth: With bipolar disorder people just go through normal fluctuations in mood as anybody else.
Fact: It is common for everybody to experience swings in life. But, the swinging in bipolar disorder is much more drastic as well as disruptive. Elevated or low moods persist for several weeks. And they are not mood alterations in response to events.
Bipolar Disorder Is Just About “Crazy” Behavior
Myth: There is an argument that bipolar disorder is making people ‘crazy’ or out of control.
Fact: It is a severe mental illness but this does not only mean. Or at least obviously not premeditated. However, this does not mean ‘crazy’. These episodes can be treated. Through speaking to a counselor or psychiatrist and through prescription of drugs.
People With Bipolar Disorder Can’t Lead Normal Lives
Myth: Bipolar patients are unable to lead normal or even successful mental lives.
Fact: Bipolar disorder can be well managed with medication and counseling. And most people with the condition are able to live healthy fulfilling lives. There is also advice on the medication, therapy. And lifestyle changes needed to control the symptoms and thrive at school, work, and home.
Bipolar disorder only manifests in mood.
Myth: Bipolar disorder is only characterized by a swapping of moods.
Fact: The main feature of bipolar disorder is depression. But it can impact cognition, behaviors, and one’s body as well. Manic episodes can impair one’s thinking ability. And depressive symptoms include fatigue, sleep disorder and difficulties in concentrating.
Bipolar Disorder Is Rare
Myth: It is rare to meet people with bipolar disorder, not very often.
Fact: Bipolar affective disorder is seen in 1- 2 % world population. It is not uncommon and can happen to everyone and anyone you know, regardless of the age or gender. It is often said that due to stigma many individuals who have bipolar disorder do not go seeking medical attention, so the actual number of people affected may be a lot high.
Facts About Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar Disorder Has Different Types
So, Bipolar disorder comes in different forms, each with varying degrees of severity:
- Bipolar I Disorder
- Bipolar II Disorder
- Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia)
It Can Be Managed with Treatment
- Fact: Bipolar disorder is said to have no cure. But can be well controlled if appropriate treatment is adopted.
- Treatment often involves a combination of:
- Medication
- Therapy
- Lifestyle Changes
It Can Be Diagnosed at Any Age
Fact: Bipolar disorder begins in adolescence or early adulthood. But it can occur at any age.
The manifestations can develop at the teenage age. However, the disease can be identified later in adulthood. It is significant to diagnose the condition early to enable the doctor.
Genetics Play a Role
Fact: People who have a gene link related to bipolar disorder are likely to develop the malady.
It was also found that people who had a first degree relative with bipolar disorder. There were likely to be affected by it also. However, in some cases, it is possible to observe the impact of subjective conditions. That appeared in interaction with environmental stimuli.
It’s Not Just a Mood Disorder
Fact: Perfect example of a false prejudice statement. Bipolar disorder is not a mood swing illness. Psychomotor functions such as thinking, social interactions. As well as normal functioning in public during either the manic. Or depressive period are all impaired.
How to Support Someone with Bipolar Disorder
For people that know someone with bipolar disorder. They should try to help out as much as they can. Here’s how you can help:
- Listen without judgment
- Encourage treatment
- Learn about bipolar disorder
- Be patient
Conclusion
There are many myth about bipolar disorder. But you should believe on them. you should focus on your mental health. And if you need any assistance then go to doctor for diagnosing and bipolar treatment. Because if you believe on them then you can not healthful. First of all, don’t believe on any myth. If you diagnose with bipolar disorder. Then without wasting time, you should go to your doctor and get treatment for it. Because in bipolar disorder, you will not able to focus on anything. So, it is necessary to get treatment and live quality life. Share this article in your friends circle and on your social media. So, that people can get benefit from it.