More people today are aware of bipolar disorder (BPD), thanks in part to popular TV shows depicting characters with this disorder. Nevertheless, some people continue to have misconceptions regarding what it is and how it affects people.
Every person has good days and bad. Both the good and bad days are very severe for men and women with this condition. They need help, as the symptoms will only worsen without treatment. What are some common myths about this disorder?
Very Few People Have Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder affects approximately 2.8 percent of the population any given year. Certain things put a person more at risk of this disease. Having a parent or sibling with the disorder puts a person more at risk, as does high stress in a person’s life.
Anyone who abuses alcohol or drugs is more likely to develop BPD, and those who have other medical conditions might find they develop bipolar disorder. Experts believe this is because certain diseases share inflammatory pathophysiology. Anyone who has one or more of these risk factors must be aware of the symptoms of bipolar disorder and know about possible bpd treatment in Orange County, so they can get help as soon as the symptoms appear.
Bipolar Disorder Is a Specific Disorder
Bipolar disorder, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, comes in seven forms. Certain forms are characterized by their manic episodes. Other forms may be substance or medically included. However, there is also an unspecified bipolar and related disorder category for those types that don’t fit into one of the other six forms.
Bipolar Disorder is Nothing More Than Moodiness
A person who is moody doesn’t necessarily have bipolar disorder. What makes this disorder different is the extreme mood wings the person experiences. The mood swings affect their energy levels, their activity, and their sleep.
Even those who struggle with rapid-cycling bipolar disorder find their symptoms last for days rather than hours. The mood swings are not only extreme, but they also happen out of context. When they strike, they can last for extended periods. The person might find they need to be hospitalized because the mood swings are so severe.
Mania is the Hallmark of Bipolar Disorder
Mania is only one part of bipolar disorder. A person will also experience depression and hypomania at times. However, to be diagnosed with bipolar disorder, the person must have one documented episode of hypomania or mania. The symptoms vary by person, but this one element must be present to receive this diagnosis. Without this elevated mood, the person cannot be considered bipolar.
Manic Periods Are Thrilling
A person who is manic will have excessive energy and find they don’t need to sleep. They may be restless and irritable or feel as if they are out of control. Their behavior might become unpredictable. Impaired judgment is often seen during manic periods, and these behaviors can negatively impact every aspect of the person’s life. Sadly, recovering from these episodes can take months or years.
A person suffering from bipolar disorder must take their medication, even when their symptoms are under control. Doing so helps to prevent future episodes. However, medication is only one part of a treatment program. The person will probably take part in psychological therapies to help reduce their symptoms and the risk of another episode. Experts typically agree this combination offers the best hope for those struggling with bipolar disorder and the highest quality of life.
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