Bipolar Disorder: Breaking the Myths, Embracing the Truth

“I’m so bipolar today!”We’ve all heard someone say it—maybe even said it ourselves. But let’s be clear: real bipolar disorder is not just flipping moods or having a “bad day.” It’s a serious, medical condition that deserves more than jokes and misinformation. And here’s the truth—it’s more common, more treatable, and more misunderstood than most people think.

At JMS Behavioral Health, our mission is to dispel misconceptions, assist individuals in identifying the symptoms, expedite diagnosis, and provide genuine support.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a brain-based condition that causes dramatic shifts in mood, energy, and daily functioning. We’re not talking about regular ups and downs—these are intense episodes of mania and depression that can last for weeks or even months.

It affects approximately 2.8% of adults in the U.S., often presenting in the late teens or early adulthood, but is frequently missed or misunderstood for years.

The Two Poles: Mania and Depression

Manic Episodes Can Look Like:

• Feeling “on top of the world” or intensely irritable

• Sleeping only a few hours but feeling wired

• Racing thoughts, talking fast, jumping topics

• Taking big risks (spending, sex, driving)

• Feeling invincible or overly confident

• Distractibility and overactivity

Depressive Episodes Can Look Like:

• Deep sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness

• Losing interest in everything—work, hobbies, people

• Sleeping too much or too little

• Guilt, shame, or feeling like a burden

• Trouble thinking clearly or making decisions

• Fatigue that no amount of rest fixes

• Thoughts of death or suicide

Types of Bipolar Disorder

Not all bipolar disorders look the same:

Bipolar I:

• At least one full manic episode

• Depression may follow

• Mania can be so intense it requires hospitalization

Bipolar II:

• At least one major depressive episode

• At least one hypomanic episode (a milder form of mania)

• No full-blown mania

Cyclothymic Disorder:

• Ongoing mood swings that don’t meet the full criteria for mania or depression

• Lasts 2 years or more

  
  

Myth vs. Reality

Let’s bust some of the biggest myths holding people back:

Myth: “Bipolar means extreme mood swings.”Reality: It’s not about moodiness. These are long-lasting, life-altering episodes that can impair work, relationships, and self-care.

Myth: “People with bipolar disorder are dangerous.”Reality: Most people with bipolar disorder are not violent. They’re more at risk of harming themselves during depressive episodes.

Myth: “You can’t live a full life with bipolar.”Reality: With treatment, you absolutely can. People thrive every day with the right support and medication.

Myth: “Medication will take away my personality.”Reality: Good treatment helps you feel more like yourself—not less. It brings balance, not emotional numbness.

Myth: “Lifestyle changes alone can fix it.”Reality: Lifestyle is helpful, but most people with bipolar disorder need medication to stabilize mood. Therapy and routines support that process.

How to Recognize the Early Signs

Signs of mania:

• Needing less sleep without feeling tired

• Bursts of energy or ideas

• Talking more or faster than usual

• Big spending or risky choices

• Unshakable optimism—or sudden irritability

Signs of depression:

• Low mood that won’t lift

• Withdrawing from loved ones

• Sleeping or eating too much (or too little)

• Trouble focusing

• Feeling like you’re not good enough

Why Diagnosis Matters

In reality, bipolar disorder frequently receives a misdiagnosis as depression. Why? Most individuals seek assistance during their lowest points, not their peaks. But treating bipolar disorder with just antidepressants can trigger worse symptoms, including mania.

It takes an average of 9.5 years for someone with bipolar disorder to get the proper diagnosis.

Getting it wrong can lead to:

• Ineffective treatment

• Emotional instability

• Worsening of symptoms

• Unnecessary suffering

Treatment That Works

At JMS Behavioral Health, we take a whole-person approach to managing bipolar disorder. That includes:

Medication

• Mood Stabilizers like lithium (the gold standard) or anticonvulsants like lamotrigine

• Atypical antipsychotics to help with mood stabilization

• Antidepressants (only when paired with mood stabilizers)

• Anti-anxiety meds when needed, short-term

Therapy

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) to manage negative thought patterns

• Interpersonal Therapy to stabilize relationships

• Psychoeducation so you know what to expect

• Family-focused Therapy to build support systems

Lifestyle Support

• Keeping a consistent sleep and meal schedule

• Regular physical activity

• Stress management techniques (journaling, mindfulness, deep breathing)

• Avoiding alcohol or recreational drugs

• Using mood tracking tools to spot early warning signs

Living Well with Bipolar Disorder

With the correct diagnosis, proper treatment, and ongoing support, many people live whole, beautiful lives with bipolar disorder.

Here’s what success often looks like:

• Taking your meds even when you feel good

• Prioritizing structure in your day

• Building a tribe that supports—not shames—you

• Knowing your triggers and early warning signs

• Staying connected with your care team

How to Support Someone with Bipolar Disorder

• Educate yourself about the condition

• Be gentle, not pushy, about treatment

• Help keep routines consistent

• Know the signs of manic or depressive episodes

• Practice patience—healing takes time

• And don’t forget to care for yourself, too

The Bottom Line: Bipolar Is Treatable

Bipolar disorder isn’t a character flaw. It’s not your fault. And you don’t have to handle it alone.

When diagnosed early and treated correctly, people with bipolar disorder can not only survive but also thrive. But we have to stop whispering about it. The more we talk, the more we heal.