7 Common Myths About Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a Mood Disorder that affects roughly 2% of the population, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood health conditions. Far more than simply “moodiness,” individuals with bipolar disorder may suffer from several different mood states, including periods of mania, hypomania, depression and mixed episodes. Mood episodes vary from person to person (and episode to episode), which may increase stigma and misunderstandings about the illness. The purpose of this article is to address several of the common misconceptions regarding bipolar disorder.

Myth #1: Bipolar Disorder Is Just Mood Swings

Having mood swings, or a baseline “moody” temperament, is not bipolar disorder. People with bipolar disorder have distinct episodes that may last days, weeks, or longer, where their mood, energy, sleep, emotions and other characteristics, differ from their baseline. Friends and family may comment, “You don’t seem like yourself,” during these episodes.

Depressions: Periods of days to weeks, with increased sadness and/or anhedonia (a decreased ability to enjoy pleasurable activities or feel positive emotion) that is typically accompanied by symptoms such as low energy, increased need for sleep, feelings of guilt, poor focus, changes in appetite, decreased libido (lower sex drive), and cognitive slowing. Suicidal thoughts may occur, and would be a reason to seek immediate treatment.

Hypomania & Mania: Periods typically lasting several days or longer, with an abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, that is typically accompanied by symptoms such as increased energy, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, a faster rate of speech, increased self-confidence, impulsivity (beyond baseline), increased libido, and others. Mild to moderate symptoms constitute “hypomanias,” and severe symptoms (such as psychosis, the need for a psychiatric hospitalization or significant repercussions from impulsivity), would change the diagnosis to Mania.

Mixed Episodes: Periods typically lasting several days or longer where symptoms of both depression and hypomania/ mania occur at the same time. For example, someone may feel depressed, highly irritable, and also experience increased energy, racing thoughts and decreased ability to sleep at the same time. These episodes can be extremely distressing (some patients stating they feel like they’re plugged into an electric socket), and can put an individual at risk for self-harm. If someone experiences suicidal thoughts, they should seek immediate medical attention.

Myth #2: Bipolar Disorder Is Rare

While bipolar disorder is not as common as Major Depressive Disorder or Anxiety Disorders, it affects millions of individuals throughout the US and is certainly not rare. About 2% of the population suffers from bipolar disorder worldwide. Bipolar disorder is a well-recognized, established and researched psychiatric condition. It affects men and women roughly equally. Bipolar disorder crosses all ages, genders and backgrounds, making it far more common than many people realize

Myth #3: Mania Is Always a Happy or Productive State

While some aspects of mania can be described as pleasurable or euphoric, the experience is rarely purely positive. Mania often includes irritability, restlessness, racing thoughts, and poor judgment that can lead to financial loss, relationship strain, impaired professional function and/or dangerous behaviors. Many people experience mixed episodes, where manic energy collides with deep depression, creating a painful state of agitated despair. Far from being “productive,” untreated mania frequently ends in exhaustion and regret, and can even lead to hospitalization and/or crisis. Finally, it is very common for an individual to fall into a clinical depression immediately following a manic episode.

Myth #4: There Is Only One Type of Bipolar Disorder

There are several types of bipolar disorder, each with their own patterns. With that said, no two people with bipolar disorder have the same experience.

• Bipolar I disorder occurs when an individual suffers from full manic episodes (with or without episodes of depression).
• Bipolar II disorder occurs when an individual suffers from episodes of hypomania, as well as depressions.
• Cyclothymia occurs when someone’s mood symptoms fluctuate between depressions and hypomanias chronically (having mood symptoms more days than not), and with mood episodes each being shorter-lived than you would see in Bipolar I and Bipolar II disorder.

Myth #5: Bipolar Disorder Can Be Diagnosed With a Simple Test

There is no blood test, brain scan, or single questionnaire that can diagnose bipolar disorder. The experienced clinician should take into account not only symptoms during mood episodes, but family history, medical history, behaviors (such as alcohol or substance use), one’s life story (any history of trauma) and personality/ temperament, when evaluating for bipolar disorder. It takes time to not only assess for bipolar disorder, but also to rule out other conditions, which could mimic symptoms of BPAD. This is why early, open conversation with a psychiatrist or other mental health professional is so important for effective diagnosis and treatment.

Myth #6: Medication Is the Only Treatment

While mood stabilizing medications can be essential and life-changing, they are rarely the complete answer. Evidence-based psychotherapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), lifestyle strategies (consistent sleep, exercise, stress management & healthy diet), peer support groups and other approaches, can be an integral part of one’s treatment plan. Working with a mental health professional that incorporates an individualized and holistic approach (as opposed to just writing for medications), typically results in the best outcomes for patients.

Myth #7: People With Bipolar Disorder Cannot Live Stable or Successful Lives

With proper treatment and support, the vast majority of people with bipolar disorder can and do live stable, fulfilling, and successful lives. Many thrive in demanding careers, build strong families and relationships, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

The key is recognizing that you’re struggling, reaching out for help to a qualified mental health professional, and being consistent with treatment. Bipolar disorder is a very treatable medical condition, and stability is not only possible but also a realistic goal of treatment.

Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Why Accurate Information Matters

Accurate information is powerful because it dismantles shame and stigma. When people believe myths, they may hide symptoms, blame themselves, or assume that nothing can help. Correct knowledge encourages earlier help-seeking, reduces stigma, and helps families and friends to offer meaningful support instead of judgment or misunderstanding.

Mental health is medical health. Through education and mythbusting, we hope that individuals with bipolar disorder and other mental health struggles are increasingly open to admitting that they need help, and receiving the care that they need and deserve.

If you or someone you love is struggling with mood changes that feel overwhelming, reach out to a mental health professional. You are not alone, and effective help is available.