Question 1

1.	Myth: People with bipolar disorder are always either manic or depressed.

Accepted Answer

Fact: People with bipolar disorder can experience long periods of even, balanced mood called euthymia. Conversely, they may sometimes experience what’s referred to as a “mixed episode,” which has features of both mania and depression at the same time.

Question 2

2.	Myth: Artists with bipolar disorder will lose their creativity if they get treatment.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Treatment often allows you to think more clearly, which will likely improve your work. Pulitzer Prize-nominated author Marya Hornbacher discovered this firsthand. “I was very persuaded I would never write again when I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. But before, I wrote one book; and now I’m on my seventh.” She has found that her work is even better with treatment.

Question 3

3.	Myth: Mania is productive. You’re in a good mood and fun to be around.

Accepted Answer

Fact: In some instances, a manic person may feel good at first, but without treatment things can become detrimental and even terrifying. They may go on a big shopping spree, spending beyond their means. Some people become overly anxious or highly irritable, getting upset over small things and snapping at loved ones. A manic person may lose control of their thoughts and actions and even lose touch with Fact.

Question 4

4.	Myth: Bipolar disorder can be cured through diet and exercise.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness and there currently is no cure. However, it can be well-managed with medication and talk therapy, by avoiding stress, and maintaining regular patterns of sleeping, eating, and exercise.

Question 5

5.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is just mood swings, which everybody has.

Accepted Answer

Fact: The highs and lows of bipolar disorder are very different from common mood swings. People with bipolar disorder experience extreme changes in energy, activity, and sleep that are not typical for them. The psychiatry research manager at one U.S. university, who wishes to stay anonymous, writes, “Just because you wake up happy, get grumpy in the middle of the day, and then end up happy again, it doesn’t mean you have bipolar disorder — no matter how often it happens to you! Even a diagnosis of rapid-cycling bipolar disorder requires several days in a row of (hypo)manic symptoms, not just several hours. Clinicians look for groups of symptoms more than just emotions.”

Question 6

6.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is curable through religious or spiritual interventions.

Accepted Answer

Fact: While spirituality and faith can provide comfort and support, bipolar disorder is a medical condition that requires evidence-based treatment. Spiritual interventions alone are not a cure for the disorder.

Question 7

7.	Myth: People can stop taking their medication once their bipolar disorder is under control

Accepted Answer

Fact: Taking medication for bipolar disorder acts preventatively to help people avoid future manic or depressive episodes. Always consult with your doctor before starting or stopping any new medications.

Question 8

8.	Myth: There is only one type of bipolar disorder

Accepted Answer

Fact: According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5), there are seven types of bipolar disorder:
Bipolar I – features at least one manic episode
Bipolar II – features at least one hypomanic episode
Cyclothymic Disorder – features hypomanic and depressive symptoms in rapid cycles
Substance/Medication-Induced Bipolar and Related Disorder
Bipolar and Related Due to Another Medical Condition
Other Specified Bipolar and Related Disorder

Question 9

9.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is just mood swings.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder involves extreme mood swings, but it is not the same as regular mood swings. It includes episodes of mania (elevated mood and energy) and depression (low mood and energy) that can be severe and disruptive.

Question 10

10.	Myth: People with bipolar disorder are just moody or difficult.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder is a medical condition, not a personality trait. The mood fluctuations are a result of chemical imbalances in the brain, and individuals with bipolar disorder cannot simply control or snap out of their episodes.

Question 11

11.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is rare.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder is more common than many people realize. It affects approximately 2-3% of the population worldwide. While it might not be as prevalent as some other mental health conditions, it is not rare.

Question 12

12.	Myth: Bipolar disorder only affects adults.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder can start in adolescence or even childhood. It does not exclusively impact adults and can affect individuals at any age.

Question 13

13.	Myth: An intensely good mood is no cause for concern.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Feelings of euphoria and invincibility can seem harmless, but for patients with bipolar disorder they aren't. They can be a sign of mania should be treated cautiously with medication and consultation with a health professional i.e. a psychiatrist.

Question 14

14.	Myth: Everyone with bipolar disorder experiences extreme highs and lows simultaneously.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Not everyone with bipolar disorder experiences mixed episodes (both mania and depression simultaneously). Some individuals may have predominantly depressive or manic episodes.

Question 15

15.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is the result of a traumatic event or bad parenting.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder has a strong genetic component, and it is not caused by external factors like upbringing or trauma. However, life stressors can exacerbate symptoms.

Question 16

16.	Myth: Medication is the only treatment for bipolar disorder.

Accepted Answer

Fact: While medication is often a crucial part of managing bipolar disorder, therapy, lifestyle changes, and support from loved ones are also essential in managing the condition effectively. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an alternative treatment for some when mediation is not effective.

Question 17

17.	Myth: People with bipolar disorder are creative geniuses.

Accepted Answer

Fact: While some individuals with bipolar disorder may be creative, not everyone with the condition possesses exceptional artistic talents. This myth can romanticize the disorder and overlook the significant challenges it can pose.

Question 18

18.	Myth: All you need is an antidepressant to manage bipolar disorder.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Antidepressants are never a sole treatment for bipolar disorder

Question 19

19.	Myth: Bipolar disorder can't be managed or treated.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder is a highly treatable condition. With the right treatment plan, including medication and therapy, many people with bipolar disorder can lead fulfilling and stable lives.

Question 20

20.	Myth: People with bipolar disorder are always a danger to others.

Accepted Answer

Fact: The vast majority of people with bipolar disorder are not violent or dangerous. Violent behaviour is not a symptom of the disorder itself. However, during manic episodes, individuals may engage in risky behaviours, and they may need support and monitoring.

Question 21

21.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is not life-threatening

Accepted Answer

Fact: Individuals with bipolar disorder have a greater risk of suicide than the general population. As many as 19 percent of people with this condition die by suicide, and as many as 60 percent attempt suicide, according to research published in Bipolar Disorders.

Question 22

22.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is a sign of weakness or a character flaw.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder is a medical condition, and having it is not a reflection of a person's character or strength. It can affect individuals from all  walks of life.

Question 23

23.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is just an excuse for bad behaviour.

Accepted Answer

Fact: The behaviours associated with bipolar disorder, especially during manic episodes, can be impulsive and challenging, but they are not excuses for bad behaviour. It's important to understand that these actions are often beyond the individual's control.

Question 24

24.	Myth: Bipolar disorder can be cured with willpower or positive thinking.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition that cannot be cured by willpower or positive thinking alone. It requires appropriate medical treatment, support, and self-care to manage the symptoms effectively.

Question 25

25.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is the same as schizophrenia.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are distinct conditions. While both involve changes in thinking and mood, schizophrenia is primarily characterised by disruptions in thinking, perception, and reality, whereas bipolar disorder revolves around mood swings between mania and depression.

Question 26

26.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is just a phase, and individuals will eventually "outgrow" it.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, and individuals do not simply "outgrow" it. However, with appropriate treatment and support, many people can effectively manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

Question 27

27.	Myth: Bipolar disorder affects only a person's mood.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder can impact various aspects of an individual's life, including their energy levels, sleep patterns, and cognitive function. It can also affect their relationships, work, and overall quality of life.

Question 28

28.	Myth: Everyone with bipolar disorder is the same, and their experiences are identical

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder is a highly individualised condition, and the experiences of those who have it can vary widely. The severity, frequency, and duration of mood episodes, as well as the response to treatment, differ from person to person.

Question 29

29.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is a result of substance abuse.

Accepted Answer

Fact: While substance abuse can exacerbate bipolar symptoms, it is not the cause of the disorder. Bipolar disorder has biological and genetic roots, and substance abuse is often a way some individuals try to self-medicate.

Question 30

30.	Myth: People with bipolar disorder can't hold down a job or have successful relationships.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Many individuals with bipolar disorder lead fulfilling lives, hold steady employment, and have healthy relationships. With proper treatment, support, and self-care, it is possible to manage the condition and pursue personal and professional goals.

Question 31

31.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is always a lifelong struggle with no hope for improvement.

Accepted Answer

Fact: With the right treatment, therapy, and support, many people with bipolar disorder can effectively manage their symptoms, achieve stability, and lead fulfilling lives. It is not a hopeless condition.

Question 32

32.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is a "new" or recently invented condition.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder has been recognised and documented for centuries. While our understanding of the disorder has evolved over time, it is not a recent invention.

Question 33

33.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is solely a result of a traumatic childhood.

Accepted Answer

Fact: The causes of bipolar disorder are complex and include genetic, biological, and environmental factors. While childhood trauma or stress can contribute to the development of mental health issues, it is not the sole cause of bipolar disorder.

Question 34

34.	Myth: Bipolar disorder is caused by a lack of self-discipline.

Accepted Answer

Fact: Bipolar disorder is a neurobiological condition with genetic and chemical components. It is not related to a lack of self-discipline or willpower.

Frequently Asked Questions
- For Carers

The person I care for wants to stop taking their medication, and I am concerned that they will become unwell again. What can I do?"

The person I care for doesn’t think they have bipolar disorder. They had a lot of stress in their life before they became unwell. Do they really have bipolar?

My partner has bipolar disorder, and two of our close relatives also have the condition. Does this mean that my child will get bipolar too?"

The person I care for has come home from hospital looking very strange and with a lot of extra weight. Now they are sleeping all the time and have been finding it hard to do everyday things. Is this part of the illness or is it being caused by their medication?

Frequently Asked Questions
- Myths debunked

1. Myth: People with bipolar disorder are always either manic or depressed.

2. Myth: Artists with bipolar disorder will lose their creativity if they get treatment.

3. Myth: Mania is productive. You’re in a good mood and fun to be around.

4. Myth: Bipolar disorder can be cured through diet and exercise.

5. Myth: Bipolar disorder is just mood swings, which everybody has.

6. Myth: Bipolar disorder is curable through religious or spiritual interventions.

7. Myth: People can stop taking their medication once their bipolar disorder is under control

8. Myth: There is only one type of bipolar disorder

9. Myth: Bipolar disorder is just mood swings.

10. Myth: People with bipolar disorder are just moody or difficult.

11. Myth: Bipolar disorder is rare.

12. Myth: Bipolar disorder only affects adults.

13. Myth: An intensely good mood is no cause for concern.

14. Myth: Everyone with bipolar disorder experiences extreme highs and lows simultaneously.

15. Myth: Bipolar disorder is the result of a traumatic event or bad parenting.

16. Myth: Medication is the only treatment for bipolar disorder.

17. Myth: People with bipolar disorder are creative geniuses.

18. Myth: All you need is an antidepressant to manage bipolar disorder.

19. Myth: Bipolar disorder can't be managed or treated.

20. Myth: People with bipolar disorder are always a danger to others.

21. Myth: Bipolar disorder is not life-threatening

22. Myth: Bipolar disorder is a sign of weakness or a character flaw.

23. Myth: Bipolar disorder is just an excuse for bad behaviour.

24. Myth: Bipolar disorder can be cured with willpower or positive thinking.

25. Myth: Bipolar disorder is the same as schizophrenia.

26. Myth: Bipolar disorder is just a phase, and individuals will eventually "outgrow" it.

27. Myth: Bipolar disorder affects only a person's mood.

28. Myth: Everyone with bipolar disorder is the same, and their experiences are identical

29. Myth: Bipolar disorder is a result of substance abuse.

30. Myth: People with bipolar disorder can't hold down a job or have successful relationships.

31. Myth: Bipolar disorder is always a lifelong struggle with no hope for improvement.

32. Myth: Bipolar disorder is a "new" or recently invented condition.

33. Myth: Bipolar disorder is solely a result of a traumatic childhood.

34. Myth: Bipolar disorder is caused by a lack of self-discipline.

Frequently Asked Questions - For Carers