As a person with bipolar, all my blogs are focused on my personal life experience. As I share my diagnosis with people, I always get a variation of misconceptions that do not fully represent the mental disorder. I am sharing a few common myths surrounding bipolar disorder.
What it is not:
Myth #1 – Bipolar means mood swings
It is not xing xang or yo-yo of emotions like PMS mood swings caused by hormonal changes. Neither is it feeling great then feeling low, nor is it being uncertain or indecisive. Manic and depressive episodes are far more extreme than regular mood swings.
Myth #2 – People diagnosed bipolar are violent or dangerous
People with bipolar disorder are no more violent than the general population. They can become a danger to themselves or others under the influence of drugs or alcohol or if they have reached the psychotic state. Research actually shows that people with mental illness are twice as likely to be victims of violence.
Myth # 3– People with bipolar are just crazy or dramatic
Being bipolar is not an excuse for erratic behavior. Sometimes the actions and behaviors of people in a manic or psychotic state are not coherent with their true personality. We need to differentiate between the natural and altered state of the individual so we can avoid judgmental conclusions.
Myth #4 – If you feel good with your medication, you can stop taking it because you are cured
Many people diagnosed with bipolar start feeling better and stop their medication treatment because they think they don’t need it anymore. A diabetic will need insulin, someone with high blood pressure will need medication to help regulate their blood pressure. So it is for mental disorder or mental illness; the medical treatments should not be stopped unless the doctor modifies the prescription. It is the medication that makes us feel better. It helps people with bipolar live a normal life. Medication is not a bad word, it is our most helpful ally.
Myth #5 – People with bipolar can’t hold a job, can’t function in society
People diagnosed with bipolar disorder can live a good life, be happy and successful just like anyone else. They can have a healthy happy relationship with a partner. They can and do hold positions of authority in their career. When properly treated, the disorder does not have to affect job performance and these people can live a stable and healthy life. Millions of people already do, including me.
Conclusion
If you or someone you know experiences with bipolar signs and symptoms, do not wait. Reach out immediately to a healthcare professional in order to obtain proper diagnosis and treatment.
For free, 24/7 support for people in crisis, please text HOME to 686868 anywhere in Canada.
To learn more about mental health and illnesses, search the free mental health 101 tutorials offered by the Center of
Addition and Mental Health https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-health-101