Bipolar Disorder and the Myths Surrounding It

There are many myths, rumors and half truths surrounding bipolar disorder. If you or a loved one has this mental illness, you want to be sure that you don't believe everything you read or hear from every so-called expert who has written about the subject, placed his opinions on the internet or talks about it on television.

To help you more fully understand what bipolar disorder looks like to many individuals who suffer with it, I'm providing some facts. Some are true, others are merely myths.

1. Bipolar disorder causes both episodes of depression and mania.

Absolutely true. In fact, this is the very essential of the term, bipolar disorder. An individual suffering from this mental illness goes from one extreme of emotion to the other. To be diagnosed with bipolar disorder an individual must have undergone at least four of these episodes in a year. Some individuals may have more episodes; others may eventually have less, especially while they are on their medications.

2. No individual with bipolar disorder can experience both mania and depression at the same time.

This is a myth. As puzzling as this may sound, this is not a myth, but a fact. The medical community calls this a mixed episode of bipolar disorder. During this time, individuals with bipolar disorder can feel experience the gamut of a manic episode: agitated, racing thoughts, difficulty remaining still. At the same time, the individual may also feel like his situation is hopeless, feel "down" and even suicidal.

3. Prescription medications are an essential tool in treating the symptoms of bipolar disorder.

True. It's becoming increasingly clear that prescription medications for bipolar disorder not only help to halt a manic episode but may also help prevent future episodes from occurring. That is the reason why doctors recommend those who suffer with bipolar disorder take their medications every single day, whether they are experiencing symptoms or not.

4. The individual with bipolar disorder is helpless in stopping an episode once it begins.