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Bipolar disorder, after depression, anxiety, and PTSD, is one of the more common mental health disorders around the world. Yet, it is often misunderstood.

Have you ever heard someone casually say something like, “Ugh, she’s so bipolar lately!” Unfortunately, we often use serious terms such as “bipolar” and “depressed” for situations that have nothing to do with the actual medical conditions of being bipolar or depressed. 

This article will serve as an introduction to bipolar disorder and will focus on the facts and fictions, that is, truths and myths, around bipolar disorder. 

Bipolar Disorder 101

Bipolar disorder, sometimes referred to as BPD (though that is better left to stand for borderline personality disorder) is among the ten most common disabilities worldwide. 

With so many people affected, you would think the public would have a good understanding of it by now, but that is far from the case.

We tend to just say bipolar disorder, but there are actually three different kinds of bipolar disorder according to the American Psychological Association, which classifies these conditions in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (or DSM-5). 

To keep things simple for this short article, however, we will just be discussing bipolar disorder in a general way. 

In general, bipolar disorder refers to a mental health disorder that causes intense periods of mania and depression (often thought of as highs and lows, though this is a simplification and not necessarily the case). 

You may be wondering how bipolar disorder is treated, or if it can even be treated. The short answer is yes, bipolar disorder can be treated. Whether it’s with something over the counter like CBD oil or with pharmaceutical prescriptions, there’s possible relief for bipolar disorder out there.

Next, we’ll cover various myths and truths about bipolar disorder. And if you need more resources or are simply curious about bipolar disorder, there is helpful guidance available from BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/bipolar/

Bipolar Disorder: Facts and Fiction

We’re going to alternate between fact and fiction here to help you better understand bipolar disorder.

Fact: Many Successful People Have Bipolar Disorder

Yes, many famous and successful people have had bipolar disorder, proving that it doesn’t have to limit anyone. Take Ernest Hemingway, for example. He is one of the most successful and celebrated authors in the history of the United States. You could also consider Brian Wilson who, despite mental troubles, helped lead the Beach Boys into being one of the biggest bands of all time. 

Currently, you have people like Mariah Carey and Demi Lovato who have bipolar disorder. These people prove that bipolar disorder doesn’t have to hold you back. 

Fiction: It’s Impossible to Thrive with Bipolar Disorder

As the above examples show, it is definitely a myth that you cannot thrive with bipolar disorder. In fact, around 5% of Americans will experience bipolar disorder at some point in their lives. That’s 1-in-20 people. 

Of course, many of these people will find success and thrive in their life, despite their bipolar disorder. This is especially true if they are proactive about their condition and seek some form or forms of treatment. 

Fact: Therapy Can Help with Bipolar Disorder

Yes, therapy can definitely help with bipolar disorder. Whether it’s in-person therapy or online therapy (teletherapy), talking through your experience with bipolar disorder can often help you better understand it and learn ways to cope with the disorder. 

While therapy may not be enough on its own, it’s generally considered an essential part of a holistic approach to bipolar disorder, which may also include medication or activities such as yoga and meditation. 

Fiction: Bipolar Disorder Is Caused by Substance Use

Is bipolar disorder caused by substance use? The research says that this is false. While substance use disorder may exacerbate symptoms and cause other problems, it does not appear to be the direct cause of any bipolar disorder that’s been diagnosed.

The most likely culprit for bipolar disorder, as is the case with many mental health disorders and other health issues, is genetics. In other words, bipolar disorder is likely passed down from a parent or grandparent. 

Conclusion

Bipolar disorder (bipolar disorder) can be devastating. It doesn’t have to be this way, though. With treatment, including medication and therapy, people can learn to live with bipolar disorder and even thrive while having it. 

Even if you don’t have bipolar disorder, you can help do your part by not using this word in a casual way. Throwing the term “bipolar” around for everyday situations actively hurts those people who live with it every day and who face a general misunderstanding about it from the general public.