“is Bipolar Real?” Mental Health Disorders And Associated Stigmas
Mental health disorders have likely existed for as long as human beings have. Throughout history, different theories and rhetoric surrounding the origin of mental health symptoms have often been used to explain the changes and challenges that mental illness can present. However, many of these explanations have been rooted in false, misconstrued, or harmful assumptions about psychology. As a result, many people with mental health disorders find it hard to receive adequate accommodations, and some may feel they have to "prove" or justify their symptoms to be accepted in their jobs, homes, and relationships.
A mental disorder, like bipolar disorder, is a legitimate health challenge that can impact a person’s ability to function. However, proper treatment is available to help people with bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, and bipolar depression. In addition to implementing healthy lifestyle habits and taking medication, talk therapy may be a helpful component of a bipolar treatment plan.
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is generally considered to be a mood disorder. It is typically characterized by periods of manic highs and depressive lows. There are three types of bipolar disorder: bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, and cyclothymic disorder.
Symptoms of bipolar I and bipolar II disorder
Though the causes of bipolar disorder are not fully understood, people with a family history of the disorder may be more likely to have the disorder themselves. Examples of changes that might accompany manic or hypomanic episodes include:
Abnormal levels of energy or mood changes; decreased need for sleep
An exaggerated sense of confidence or well-being
Risky decision-making
Unusual or increased talkativeness
Racing thoughts or an inability to focus on day-to-day tasks
Depressive symptoms of cyclothymia
Symptoms that can occur because of depressive episodes may include:
Insomnia or poor sleep
Feelings of disinterest or apathy, even related to things that used to bring joy
Significant changes in weight due to an increase or decrease in appetite
Fatigue
Depressed mood (feeling sad, empty, numb, etc.)
Bipolar disorder is usually treated with psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and pharmaceutical intervention as necessary. Because the condition is usually known for its changes in symptoms, pharmaceutical treatment typically seeks to create a level mood rather than trying to treat depression and mania alternately. Depending on a person’s symptoms, a health care professional may prescribe mood stabilizers and/or antipsychotic medications. A doctor or psychiatrist can provide detailed information about different medications before you begin treatment.
How can bipolar disorder impact individuals?
Bipolar disorder can impact people in virtually every aspect of their lives and may present challenges in relationships, work, school, and an individual’s personal life. Because bipolar disorder can be characterized by periods of intense activity and productivity, or extremely irritable mood changes, followed by a period of severe depressive symptoms, or, in extreme cases, psychotic symptoms, work performance can be alternately positively and negatively impacted, while relationships may be challenging to maintain due to the aggravated highs and lows of the condition.
Without continuous treatment or support, bipolar disorder may lead to lowered self-esteem. Those experiencing its symptoms may blame themselves for unusual shifts in temperament or uncontrollable behavioral changes that lead to instability.
It can be helpful to remember that bipolar disorder is a legitimate mental illness, not a character defect. Its symptoms can be truly life-altering to those who experience it.
What are the stigmas associated with mental health disorders?
Mental health disorders aren’t real, are exaggerated, or aren’t significant.
Perhaps the most common and damaging stigma associated with mental health conditions is the assertion that people living with bipolar disorder or other illnesses are being dishonest or are "faking it." This can also be a reason people are not afforded proper care, as their experiences may be doubted, dismissed, or ignored.
Mental health disorders exist, but only in a certain way. All people with mental illnesses face the same challenges.
Often, there is a stigma around how a mental illness "should" look. As a result, people may cast doubt on someone who claims to have a mental illness but does not fit the mold they have created. For example, a person might incorrectly assume that all people living with eating disorders are very thin.
People with mental health disorders are lazy, undisciplined, or lack the willpower to overcome their symptoms. If they just “tried harder,” adopted the right attitude, or changed their habits, they could feel better.
This stigma fails to recognize the uncontrollable nature of many mental health symptoms, as well as how many mental illnesses affect brain structure. It may also be used to diminish a person's needs or worth. A person going through a depressive episode may require more than willpower to manage their symptoms.
Mental health disorders are abnormal, strange, or scary. The people who experience them are unpredictable or unsafe.
Believing stigmas often results in discrimination, bullying, and similarly dangerous attitudes toward others. Assuming that a person is nothing more than their mental illness often stems from a lack of understanding or outdated beliefs. Some mental health conditions, like anxiety disorders, are common and often undetectable to others.
How are people with mental health disorders adversely affected?
Stigmas associated with mental health can negatively affect people living with mental illness. They may develop low self-esteem, struggle feeling comfortable with seeking help, or harbor negative feelings about their own symptoms. The result may be worsened symptoms, failure to pursue necessary treatment, isolation from others, and unhealthy coping mechanisms, like excessive substance use.
If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.
Living with a mental health disorder can be challenging
How can the stigma be removed?
One of the most effective ways to raise awareness and remove stigma can be to speak openly about mental health. Although mental illness has often been hidden and gone undiscussed in public spheres, talking openly about mental illness can help others feel less alone and may show those who are misinformed that their ideas may be rooted in false presuppositions.
Stigma can also be removed by increasing understanding of mental illnesses, how they work, and how they develop. Because so many people may consider mental illness to be a choice rather than the result of phenomena beyond an individual’s control, education regarding the true nature of psychological disorders may be the best tool we have to promote change. For example, helping people understand bipolar disorder may help alleviate fears and inaccuracies about the condition.
Finally, by acknowledging these beliefs as the harmful assumptions that they often are, it may be possible to empower more people living with mental illnesses to stand up for their right to be accepted, accommodated, and understood.
Treating bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses
One of the most significant consequences of stigma may be its ability to hold people back from seeking out an accurate diagnosis and pursuing treatment for mental health symptoms. Whether it be for bipolar disorder, depression, PTSD, or something else entirely, professional mental health treatment is often necessary. The very stigma that tends to pressure people to manage their symptoms may be the same stigma that can prevent people from doing so.
Can online therapy help with bipolar symptom management?
Living with a mental illness can be draining due to its related symptoms, but having to combat stigma can make things seem even more daunting. Mental health professionals can offer advice, guidance, and support that may not only treat symptoms but also undo some of the harm that stigma can cause. Those who are uncomfortable speaking with a professional face-to-face may benefit from resources like online therapy, which allows you to connect with a provider from the comfort of your own home through video conference, phone call, or online chat. You can also switch therapists as needed until you find a professional that suits your needs and preferences.
Exploring affordable options for effective online therapy
In addition to being an approachable, less intimidating way to seek treatment, online therapy may be a more sustainable option due to its lower cost. One review of 17 studies focused on online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) generally found it to be a more cost-effective option for clients than in-person therapy. The same review also discovered that online therapy could be just as effective as traditional therapy for treating mental health symptoms, specifically those related to depression.
Takeaway
Despite the many strides that have been made recently regarding mental health disorders, harmful stigmas may still exist. Mental health awareness and education can be vital in terms of removing the stigma surrounding mental health disorders. Mental health treatment, like online therapy, can be a valuable tool to manage symptoms of various disorders and to reframe any negative thoughts tied to stigma. Mental illnesses like bipolar disorder are real and legitimate, and seeking the support of a licensed therapist can promote positive change.
Is bipolar real or an excuse?
Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic depression, is a real mental health condition, not an excuse for behavior. A person with bipolar disorder may experience severe mood swings that include emotional highs (manic episodes) and lows (depressive episodes). A trained healthcare professional will typically diagnose bipolar disorder and recommend treatments to manage symptoms.
Can bipolar go away?
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition, and while symptoms can be managed with treatment and support, it does not typically go away. However, with proper treatments, such as medication and psychotherapy, a person with bipolar disorder can better manage their mood swings and other symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Is bipolar a form of schizophrenia?
Bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are different mental disorders. While both can have psychotic symptoms, bipolar disorder mainly causes mood swings, including severe manic episodes. Schizophrenia, on the other hand, generally affects a person's thought processes and perception of reality.
Can you live a normal life with bipolar?
Yes, people with bipolar disorder can live a productive and normal life. However, the severity and type of bipolar disorder may be a key factor. For example, some people may have a milder form of bipolar disorder known as cyclothymic disorder, in which the manic and depression symptoms may be less severe than those of bipolar I or II disorder. With ongoing treatment and support, however, many people are able to achieve their personal and professional goals.
Do bipolar people regret what they say?
During manic episodes, people with bipolar disorder may speak impulsively, and, as a result, they may regret what they've said later. Impulsivity is a symptom of the disorder and may be managed with treatment that helps control manic symptoms.
Why are bipolar people so successful?
Some people with bipolar disorder may experience periods of increased creativity and productivity during manic episodes, which may help bring success. However, this does not apply to all people with bipolar disorder. In addition, because of its challenges, bipolar disorder can act as an obstacle for many people.
Do bipolar people know they are lying?
If individuals with bipolar disorder lie, it may not be directly caused by the disorder. Like anyone else, a person with bipolar disorder may be aware of their dishonesty. In some cases, symptoms can affect their behavior and may lead to unintentional dishonesty or distorted thinking.
How do people with bipolar think?
People with bipolar disorder can experience a range of different thought patterns depending on their current mood state. During a manic episode, they may have racing thoughts or increased self-esteem, while depressive episodes can cause trouble focusing and an experience of hopelessness.
What can trigger bipolar?
People may be more prone to develop bipolar disorder because of genetic and environmental factors. In people with bipolar disorder, symptoms may be triggered by different factors, including stress, lack of sleep, or substance abuse. Each individual may have different triggers, and identifying them may be helpful for managing the disorder.
Do bipolar people lack empathy?
There is no evidence to suggest that people with bipolar disorder inherently lack empathy. During periods of stability, they can be just as empathetic as anyone else. However, people with bipolar disorder may struggle to show empathy during certain mood states, such as manic episodes, when they may be more focused on their own thoughts and ideas.
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