Myths about Bipolar Disorder
1. Bipolar disorder is just mood swings:
Contrary to popular belief, bipolar disorder is not simply a case of mood swings. It involves distinct episodes of mania and depression, which can have severe impacts on a person’s life. The diagnosis is not yet isolated to one specific gene, blood test, or any other quantitative measure but rather a combination of things we will talk about later.
2. It’s just extreme moodiness:
While individuals with bipolar disorder may experience mood swings, it’s essential to recognize that it’s not just a matter of being moody. Moodiness is a symptom of various factors such as poor sleep hygiene, bad nutrition, stress, lack of exercise, poor relationships, etc. It’s a serious mental health condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment as well as major lifestyle changes.
3. Only extreme cases need treatment:
Bipolar disorder exists on a spectrum, and even mild cases can benefit from treatment. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and improve long-term outcomes. I err on the side of making lifestyle changes before taking medication; however, treatment is the physician’s territory, so my advice is to find a holistically trained doctor (search integrative doctor or holistic psychiatrist) that will only resort to medication when absolutely necessary.
4. People with bipolar disorder are always either extremely high or extremely low:
While manic and depressive episodes are characteristic of bipolar disorder, individuals can also experience periods of stability. It’s not a constant state of extreme highs or lows. People living with BP also experience mixed states where they feel high and low at the same time!
5. It’s just a phase:
Bipolar disorder is a useful framework to regain stability. I believe recovery is possible, but lifelong vigilance is necessary should one wish to avoid the extremes. I have asthma; however, I haven’t had to use an inhaler for over 20 years. In the same way, I believe my five pillars can help you regain and maintain health. It is definitely not just a phase.
Facts about Bipolar Disorder
1. Genetic predisposition:
Bipolar disorder tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component. Understanding the genetic factors can help in early detection and intervention.
This by no means there is a guarantee, but just like diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure, etc. run in a family, BP does as well.
2. Chemical imbalance:
Changes in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine play a role in bipolar disorder. Medications targeting these neurotransmitters can help manage symptoms.
Mania is often but not always an excess of dopamine while depression is often a severe lack thereof. However, medication such as mood stabilizers and anti-psychotics mask the underlying cause.
3. Triggers:
Stressful life events, substance abuse, and disruptions in sleep patterns can trigger episodes of mania or depression in individuals with bipolar disorder.
Identifying and managing these triggers is crucial for symptom management.
4. Treatment options:
Bipolar disorder is treatable with a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Finding the right treatment plan may take time, but it’s possible to effectively manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.
At BP Harmony, we move past mere symptom management and strive towards recovery!
