When you hear the phrase “bipolar disorder”, what’s the first thing you think of? For too many people, they think that people with bipolar are crazy, or that it’s not a “real” mental illness. However, bipolar disorder IS a real illness, despite the misconceptions behind it. Here are some common misconceptions about bipolar disorder.

It’s just mood swings.

While the symptoms of bipolar disorder come across as just mood swings, the reality is quite different. For example, many individuals don’t experience mania and depression in a cyclical way – meaning that someone can go through a depressed state, come back to normal, and then dip into depression again before experiencing mania.

People experiencing mood swings generally have some control over them. Those with bipolar disorder, when they are in a manic or depressed state, do not always have control over themselves. Also, mood swings last for a few days at most, whereas someone with bipolar can be in a manic state for weeks to months at a time before coming back down.

Bipolar only affects your mood.

While bipolar disorder is often considered a mood disorder, it affects every part of an individual’s life. For example, when someone is in a manic state, they might only be able to get 1-3 hours of sleep every night because they just can’t “turn off” the racing thoughts. People in a depressed state can have their eating patterns affected, either turning away food or eating for comfort instead of nutrition. In both cases, it affects how someone approaches life’s problems, so it can not only change the person’s life, but others they interact with, too!

Bipolar can’t be treated.

While there’s no cure for bipolar, it can absolutely be managed through a variety of therapies. Depending on the severity of the disorder, someone can even self-regulate without any medications.

Treatment options include psychotherapy, self-management, and medications. Psychotherapy can be useful in helping an individual identify their triggers and redirect their energy in healthier ways. Self-management includes following a healthy diet and exercise program, and joining

Being in a manic state means you’re just really happy.

The manic stage of bipolar can seem to onlookers as just happiness, but it’s a little more complicated. It’s best to think about it as removing inhibitions. People in a manic state often will do impulsive things, such as going on a shopping spree, that they regret when they come out of the manic state. For some people, these decisions can become dangerous to their wellbeing, such as substance use or daredevil activities.

You can’t live a normal life with bipolar disorder.

False! Nearly 3% of Americans have bipolar disorder, and many lead a normal life. Just like many mental health conditions, if managed properly, there’s no limitations on someone’s outlook. In fact, treatment usually encourages joining different clubs or groups, healthy diet and exercise – which are good for everyone!

While bipolar disorder seems like a scary mental illness, it’s treatable with proper attention and care. If you or someone you know has bipolar disorder, take some time and learn about what the disorder is, and how it can affect different people. The more you know, the better you can help.

Common Misconceptions about Bipolar Disorder