What is the first thought that comes to your mind when you find out that your friend, relative, or someone you know has bipolar disorder ? Most of the time, we think that this person can't hold down a job, can't maintain a stable relationship, is always causing problems, and is difficult to live with. These are the misconceptions that have been built up in society. But the truth is much different. Today, we are going to talk about these misconceptions and the truth behind them.
What exactly is Bipolar Disorder?
Before we talk about this, let's simply understand what bipolar is. It is a mental health condition. Just like diabetes or high blood pressure, it needs to be treated. It is when a person's mood swings abnormally between two extremes.
- One extreme is mania or hypomania: During this time, the person feels extremely happy and has a lot of energy. They can't sleep, talk a lot, work non-stop, and do risky things (for example, spending a lot of money at once).
- The other extreme is depression : During this time, the person feels very sad, has no interest in anything, lacks energy. They are always tired, have no appetite, can't sleep, and feel disappointed with life.
The important thing is that this is not a weakness or a character flaw. This is a medical condition caused by changes in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters). With proper medical treatment and counseling, this condition can be managed well and lead a successful life.
Stereotypes ingrained in society
As someone living with bipolar, I have had to deal with social stigma and misconceptions all the time. Sometimes, these range from things as big as getting fired from my job to things as small as asking, "You're probably just sitting at home without a job, aren't you?" Let's take a look at what these misconceptions are.
| Stereotype | Reality |
|---|---|
| Can't get a steady job | When treated properly, many people are very successful in their careers. They can become talented doctors, engineers, artists, and businessmen. |
| A successful family life and relationship cannot be paid for. | When managing bipolar disorder, they can build loving and stable relationships. As with any relationship, understanding and support are key. |
| Always unstable, dangerous, and violent | This is completely false. They are just like anyone else when they are not showing symptoms. Although they may exhibit risky behaviors during periods of mania that occur when they are not receiving treatment, the majority of them are not violent. |
| Dependent on parents or partner | Many people live financially independent and successful lives. The disease makes it impossible to measure one's abilities and worth. |
What kind of damage do these misconceptions do to the mind?
Imagine, I'm building a house with my own hard work, driving a nice car, and living happily with my wife. I work in mental health counseling. But when people find out that I have bipolar, they see my success in a different light.
They think, "Oh... he must have done all this with his wife's money" or "his parents must have been rich." They look at the job I do and think, "Oh... that must be a charity job for people with mental health problems."
My wife does a good job. But in reality, I earn more than her. We are both equally successful. We have built these things through both of our hard work. But when my illness completely erases my hard work, my contribution , and labels me as someone dependent on my wife, it is unbearable. This is not only unfair, but also completely untrue.
These misconceptions gradually damage a person's self-esteem and self -confidence. No matter how talented or successful they are, they can still feel disappointed with themselves because of how society views them.
How should we be supportive?
The best way you can help someone in your life with bipolar disorder is to look at them with an open mind, without filling your head with these misconceptions.
- Try to understand: Read up on bipolar disorder and learn about it. Talk to them about how it makes them feel. But don't judge.
- Don't make assumptions: Don't say things like, "You can't do this," "You're good today, but tomorrow will be different." Don't doubt their abilities.
- Encourage treatment: Remind them to take the prescribed treatment exactly as prescribed and to see their doctor on time. That's a great support.
- Treat them normally: This is the most important thing. Don't treat them differently. Bipolar is just one part of their life. It's not their entire identity. They have dreams, hopes, and abilities just like everyone else.
We can all have different illnesses. Are all people with diabetes the same? No. Similarly, not all people with bipolar are the same. We are all different. So, please don't try to put someone with bipolar into one box. Treat them with the same respect and understanding as you would treat anyone else.
Take-Home Message
- Bipolar disorder is not a character flaw or weakness. It is a medical condition that requires proper treatment.
- With the right treatment and support, people living with bipolar disorder can live very successful, happy, and fulfilling lives.
- Don't judge someone by their medical condition. Avoid believing in stereotypes and treat every person with respect.
- Your understanding and support can make a huge difference in the life of someone struggling with bipolar.
- If you or someone you know is suffering from this condition, please see a qualified doctor (physician) for professional help.
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