Bipolar Disorder- Often Misunderstood

I know that I misunderstood what bipolar was (and was not) for many years. When I was told as an adult that my father had bipolar when we were kids, I scoffed! Why? Because I never saw the typical publicized (by celebrities) or even romanticized (in movies) faces of bipolar in him. It wasn’t until I was in grad school taking a course on the DSM-IV that I began to identify a face of bipolar disorder that I did recognize from my father– and frankly in other friends and family.

How can we all better understand bipolar disorder? Well, I am grateful that there is a wealth of easy to digest information on the web on this subject. I want to share some more information. I don’t think we could ever educate ourselves enough concerning mental health issues. We are our own best advocates… and the experts of our own lives!

Here are some myths and facts regarding bipolar:

Myth: People with bipolar disorder can’t get better or lead a normal life.

Fact: Many people with bipolar disorder have successful careers, happy family lives, and satisfying relationships. Living with bipolar disorder is challenging. But with treatment, healthy coping skills, and a solid support system, you can live fully while managing your symptoms.

Myth: People with bipolar disorder swing back and forth between mania and depression.

Fact: Some people alternate between extreme episodes of mania and depression, but most are depressed more often than they are manic. Mania may also be so mild that it goes unrecognized. People with bipolar disorder can also go for long stretches without symptoms.

MYTH: Bipolar disorder only affects mood.

Fact: Bipolar disorder also affects your energy level, judgment, memory, concentration, appetite, sleep patterns, sex drive, and self-esteem. Additionally, bipolar disorder has been linked to anxiety, substance abuse, and health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, migraines, and high blood pressure.

MYTH: Aside from taking medication, there is nothing you can do to control bipolar disorder.

Fact: While medication is the foundation of bipolar disorder treatment, therapy and self-help strategies also play important roles. You can help control your symptoms by exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, eating right, monitoringyour moods, keeping stress to a minimum, and surrounding yourself with supportive people.

Bipolar disorder can look very different in different people. That is why I believe it is crucial to absorb as much information on the condition as possible.

Here is some information on the different faces of bipolar disorder:

Bipolar I Disorder(mania or a mixed episode)– The classic manic-depressive form of the illness, characterized by at least one manic episode or mixed episode. Usually—but not always—Bipolar I Disorder also involves at least one episode of depression.

Bipolar II Disorder (hypomania and depression)– In Bipolar II disorder, the person doesn’t experience full-blown manic episodes. Instead, the illness involves episodes of hypomania and severe depression.

Cyclothymia(hypomania and mild depression)– Cyclothymia is a milder form of bipolar disorder. It consists of cyclical mood swings. However, the symptoms are less severe than full-blown mania or depression.

The more we know, the more we can live life in healthy ways and also support our loved one’s who struggle with these mental health challenges and dis-eases. There is so much more excellent content at this website. Please check it out and keep it handy!