Breaking the Stigma: Myths and Facts About Bipolar Disorder

According to data compiled through the National Comorbidity Survey Replication, nearly 5% of Americans will experience bipolar disorder at some point in their lives. For those people and their loved ones, myths and misinformation about bipolar disorder can make an already complicated situation even more difficult. 

Brightmind Wellness would like to help by dispelling some of the more common myths about what it’s like to live with bipolar disorder. For individuals and families who need treatment or support for bipolar disorder, Grace Muthami, PMHNP-BC, has extensive experience with this and many other mental health conditions. She offers telepsychiatry services to residents throughout Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, from her office in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. 

Myth: Bipolar disorder is incredibly rare

Research shows that bipolar disorder, while not an incredibly common mental health condition, is definitely not rare. At any given time, as many as 2.8% of Americans will experience bipolar disorder. 

That means that everyone likely knows or has had contact with someone who lives with bipolar disorder. While researchers are uncertain of the exact cause of bipolar disorder, it appears that genetics might play a role, and it seems that stress can trigger the initial episode for many people. 

Myth: You can get tested to see if you have bipolar disorder

There is no stand-alone test that leads to a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Like many mental health conditions, bipolar disorder is diagnosed through working with a trained mental health professional to examine symptoms. 

Grace Muthami gathers information about your symptoms and searches for potential medical issues that might play a contributing role. There are clear diagnostic guidelines provided for mental health professionals, and she uses these, in addition to her clinical experience, to reach an accurate diagnosis. 

Bipolar disorder is nothing more than mood swings

It’s true that one of the defining characteristics of bipolar disorder is shifting between periods of depression and periods of mania. But people with bipolar disorder are dealing with a much more nuanced and disruptive type of mood change. 

Periods of depression go far beyond the blues, affecting numerous parts of everyday life. Manic bouts are also intense, taking patients on a ride they cannot control and often don’t want. 

Everyone experiences mood swings, and some have more pronounced shifts than others. But for people with bipolar disorder, changes in mood and emotional stability interfere with daily life and are not comparable to what we consider “normal” mood swings. 

Fact: Bipolar disease can be treated

If you or a loved one receives a diagnosis of bipolar disease, it’s important to know that this condition can be effectively treated. There are medications that can help manage symptoms, and Grace Muthami works closely with you to find the right drug therapy for your needs. 

Talk therapy can also be a very powerful tool in treating bipolar disorder. Working with a skilled and personable therapist ensures you receive the support and encouragement you need as you navigate life with bipolar disorder. Family therapy can help loved ones know what to expect and how to best support someone living with bipolar disorder. 

Contact Brightmind for personalized advice on bipolar disorder

If you’d like more information, or are seeking help for yourself or someone you care about, don’t put off booking a session with Grace. You’ll find professional mental health services that are accessible through private, confidential telehealth visits. 

Call the office today to find an appointment time that fits your schedule, or set up an appointment online.