Written by Michelle Nguyen
Edited by Cassidy Ho
Every March 30th, World Bipolar Disorder Day serves as a day to educate the public, destigmatize misconceptions while raising funds for treatment, and bring those with bipolar disorder together in solidarity.
Graphic made by Ori Nguyen, from Arts for Relief
Because a pandemic can cause feelings of isolation and come with emotional barriers, it is more important now than ever to properly educate ourselves on the history and significance of bipolar disorder and uplift those living with bipolar disorder.
According to the National Institute on Mental health, bipolar disorder is “...a mental disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, concentration, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks.” The three types of bipolar disorder are Bipolar I Disorder, Bipolar II Disorder, and Cyclothymic Disorder. Approximately 4.4% of the United States population experience bipolar disorder once in their lifetime, while approximately 45 million individuals are affected worldwide. Diagnosis for bipolar disorder tends to occur around one’s teenage years to early adulthood, and treatment plans usually last up to a lifetime.
What are the three types of bipolar disorder associated with and how are they different?
Bipolar I Disorder involves manic episodes (abnormal periods of elevated moods, intense energy, and exaggerated actions) that can last for up to 7 days or result in the need for immediate hospital care. Those who suffer from Bipolar I Disorder typically face major depressive episodes during or after experiencing manic episodes.
Bipolar II Disorder is distinct from Bipolar I Disorder as it involves patterns of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes (mood or energy levels that are abnormally elevated) that usually do not result in the need for hospital care or psychological impairment.
Cyclothymic Disorder, also known as cyclothymia is defined by hypomanic symptoms that last for periods up to 2 years. However, these symptoms are not severe to the point where they can be categorized as fully hypomanic or depressive episodes.
The signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder can be classified into manic episodes and depressive episodes.
Common symptoms during manic episodes include a loss in appetite, racing thoughts, stressful multitasking, taking harmful risks, irritability, and feelings of self-importance and power. Contrasting the symptoms of manic episodes, depressive episodes result in feelings of hopelessness and restlessness. Physical symptoms include insomnia, increased appetite, and unhealthy weight gain. Individuals can also struggle with concentration and can lose interest in activities and work.
Misconceptions regarding bipolar disorder are detrimental as they paint a false idea of real struggles individuals have to overcome in their daily lives.
Common examples of misrepresentation of bipolar disorder include phrases such as “I’m feeling bipolar” or calling someone “bipolar”. These phrases are not only hurtful to those who suffer from bipolar disorder, but they also undermine the hardships that are attached to having bipolar disorder. The normalization of “bipolar” as a label is extremely harmful, as it suggests that one’s mental disorder is simply a personality trait or a feeling that can be controlled.
There are also false myths about bipolar disorder that can increase difficulty in the daily lives of those living with bipolar disorder. Many believe that bipolar disorder is not a real disorder and that it is equivalent to having “mood swings”. Bipolar disorder is a real disorder and can be diagnosed by medical professionals. An individual living with bipolar disorder cannot simply flip a switch and shut off their struggles. A very common misconception about people diagnosed with bipolar disorder is that they are not fun to be around or that they are hard to work/have a bond with. These degrading beliefs can cause those who are suffering to suffer in silence out of shame. Additionally, it can make it even harder for individuals to find the motivation to seek treatment.
With that, we need to start combating the negative perceptions of bipolar disorder by reading articles and translating the facts about bipolar disorder to your circle of friends and family. As there is no permanent cure for bipolar disorder, it is also important to encourage individuals to seek professional treatment to better their quality of life and mental wellness. Most importantly, providing those who are suffering from bipolar disorder with sources of comfort and assistance can help them take the steps to learn how to cope in their daily lives.
Resources for Bipolar Disorder:
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