The Truth About Bipolar Disorder: Debunking the Top 20 Myths

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Unfortunately, many myths and misconceptions surround this disorder, making it difficult for people living with bipolar disorder to get the support and understanding they need. In this article, we’ll debunk the top 20 myths about bipolar disorder and set the record straight.

Myth #1: Bipolar disorder is just a bad mood

Bipolar disorder is not just a bad mood; it is a serious mental illness that affects a person’s thinking, mood, behavior, and energy levels. It can cause extreme mood swings, from manic episodes with high energy and overactivity to depressive episodes with low mood, fatigue, and hopelessness.

Myth #2: People with bipolar disorder are always moody

Not every person with bipolar disorder experiences constant mood swings. In fact, some people with bipolar disorder may go weeks or months without a significant mood change. Others may experience rapid cycling, with multiple mood swings within a single day.

Myth #3: Bipolar disorder is caused by personal weakness or character flaws

Bipolar disorder is not caused by personal weakness or character flaws. Like many mental health conditions, it is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and chemical factors.

Myth #4: Mood swings can be controlled with willpower

People with bipolar disorder cannot simply control their mood swings with willpower. Mood swings and other symptoms are caused by changes in brain chemistry that require medication and therapy to manage.

Myth #5: People with bipolar disorder are violent

People with bipolar disorder are not more violent than the general population. However, some manic episodes can include impulsive or reckless behavior that may pose a risk to themselves or others. With proper treatment, the risk of violence can be minimized.

Myth #6: Bipolar disorder is rare

Bipolar disorder is not rare. It affects approximately 2.6% of the US population, or about 5 million people.

Myth #7: Bipolar disorder is always diagnosed in childhood

While bipolar disorder can be diagnosed in childhood, it is more commonly diagnosed in late adolescence or early adulthood. Some people do not receive a diagnosis until later in life.

Myth #8: Bipolar disorder only affects creative or “genius” individuals

Bipolar disorder can affect anyone, regardless of their creativity or IQ. While famous artists and writers such as Vincent van Gogh and Sylvia Plath were believed to have had bipolar disorder, most people with bipolar disorder are not creative geniuses.

Myth #9: Bipolar disorder can be cured with alternative therapies

While some alternative therapies such as yoga, meditation, and herbal supplements may provide relief from symptoms, there is no cure for bipolar disorder. Proven treatments include mood stabilizing medications and psychotherapy.

Myth #10: Bipolar disorder is a made-up condition

Bipolar disorder is a real, diagnosable condition recognized by the American Psychiatric Association and other professional organizations. There is a significant amount of research on the causes, symptoms, and treatment of bipolar disorder.

Myth #11: Only bipolar disorder type I is real

While bipolar disorder type I is the most well-known form of the disorder, bipolar disorder type II and cyclothymia are also real and commonly diagnosed.

Myth #12: Medications for bipolar disorder turn people into zombies

While some medications for bipolar disorder can have side effects, they do not turn people into zombies. Many people with bipolar disorder find that medications help them stabilize their mood and lead productive lives.

Myth #13: People with bipolar disorder cannot hold down jobs

While bipolar disorder can present challenges in the workplace, many people with the disorder are able to hold down jobs with the help of medication, therapy, and support.

Myth #14: People with bipolar disorder just need to “snap out of it”

Bipolar disorder is not something that can be “snapped out of.” People with the disorder need professional support and treatment to manage their symptoms.

Myth #15: People with bipolar disorder are just attention-seeking

People with bipolar disorder are not attention-seeking. They need support, understanding, and proper treatment to live healthy, fulfilling lives with the condition.

Myth #16: Only women get bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder affects both genders equally. However, some studies suggest that women may be more likely to experience depressive symptoms, while men may be more likely to experience manic symptoms.

Myth #17: Bipolar disorder is caused by poor parenting

Bipolar disorder is not caused by poor parenting. In fact, parents of children with the disorder often blame themselves for their child’s condition, but research shows that parental behavior is not a significant cause of bipolar disorder.

Myth #18: Bipolar disorder makes people dangerous

Bipolar disorder does not make people automatically dangerous. In fact, people with the disorder are more likely to harm themselves than other people.

Myth #19: People with bipolar disorder cannot have normal romantic relationships

While bipolar disorder can present challenges in relationships, many people with the disorder have successful, fulfilling romantic relationships.

Myth #20: People with bipolar disorder are just lazy

People with bipolar disorder are not lazy. They may struggle with motivation during depressive episodes, but this is a symptom of the disorder, not a personal failing.

Now that these myths have been debunked, it is important to remember that people with bipolar disorder are capable of leading happy, productive lives with the right treatment and support. If you or someone you know is living with bipolar disorder, seek professional help and support to ensure the best possible outcomes.