Harmful Bipolar Disorder Myths Busted

Bipolar disorder is often surrounded by many myths that are taken as facts by most people. Here we bust some common misconceptions surrounding the disease.

By: Paras Hemrajani | | Updated: September 23, 2020 9:00 am

Tags: Bipolar Disorder problem symptoms of bipolar disorder

Compared to men, women have milder episodes of mania. © Shutterstock

When you hear the word bipolar disorder, you must be usually thinking of sudden mood swings. You are not wrong to think this. It is true that this condition may induce sudden high energy and then extreme tiredness. This ‘high’ or ‘low’, sometimes, may last even for days and weeks. This is a treatable condition and proper treatment and regular follow-ups are essential to deal with it. However, it is not that easy to convince a patient to get treatment. Moreover, there are various myths and misconceptions surrounding this condition. Because of this, it is difficult to treat the disease and end the stigma surrounding it. Also Read - Mental disorder during pregnancy: Early diagnosis of this condition is now possible

Here we reveal some of the common myths surrounding this condition. Also Read - Subtle signs that can predict relapse in bipolar disorder

Myth: Bipolar disorder is a rare illness

Fact: According to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, USA, globally, it is estimated that more than 46 million people have bipolar disorder. According to a study published in Archives of Mental Health, India, prevalence of bipolar disorder ranges from 0.51 per thousand to 20.78 per thousand people in India. Also Read - Pediatric bipolar disorder? Read the warning signs for early effective treatment

Myth: Children do not get bipolar disorder

Fact: Bipolar is very common in children, especially between the age of 6 to 10. This disorder in children presents itself differently with very fast mood swings rather than intense mood for weeks as seen in adults. Because of this difference, the myth that children don’t have bipolar disorder has spread. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), children with bipolar parents are more likely to develop this condition.

Myth: Alcohol and drugs cause bipolar disorder

Fact: There is no scientific evidence that states that alcoholism and drug abuse can cause bipolar disorder. On the contrary, studies have shown that it can make a person take drugs and alcohol.

Myth: You can stop bipolar medication once you are better

Fact: The disappearance of symptoms doesn’t mean that the disease has disappeared, it means that the medicine is working. Bipolar medications are usually prescribed for life. Without them, the chances of relapse are high. Talk to your doctor, before stopping or changing your medication.

Myth: Bipolar disorder can be treated with diet

Fact: Currently, there is no cure for this condition. Symptoms of the condition, such as periods of high energy, insomnia and loss of understanding about reality can be managed with medication, therapy, diet and exercise.

Myth: It is a sign of personal weakness

Fact: Bipolar disorder is just like any other health condition. It is definitely not triggered or caused by a specific personal character flaw. It can occur in any person at any given time.

Myth: People with bipolar disorder will not be able to have a career

Fact: No doubt, having this mental health condition may make it challenging for a person to hold a regular job and go down a career path. But it is not impossible. People with this condition can easily work and have a career.

Published : September 23, 2020 9:00 am | Updated:September 23, 2020 9:00 am

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