InSynch Health

Myths and Facts About Bipolar Disorder

Have you been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and want to learn more about it? Or do you know someone who’s been diagnosed with it? Read on to learn about some common myths and facts about the condition.

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mood disorder that affects about 2.3 million Americans. While the condition is common, there are a lot of misconceptions surrounding its symptoms and their effect on people with the disorder.

At InSynch Health, our experienced mental health specialists offer comprehensive treatment options, including mood stabilizing medications and psychotherapy, to help patients manage bipolar disorder. We customize a care plan to your individual needs, so you can enjoy a happier, fuller life.

In addition to treating your symptoms, we also help you sort through the myths and facts of the disorder, so you can better understand the condition.

Myth 1: People with bipolar disorder could change their moods if they really wanted to

Fact: Bipolar disorder causes extreme high and low moods that affect people differently. Those living with the condition may experience sudden and severe mood changes that impact their energy levels and sleep quality.

These symptoms are not something they can easily shake off or change their mindset about. Often, people with bipolar disorder need medications and other treatments throughout their life to keep their symptoms under control.

Unfortunately, some people misuse drugs or alcohol to find relief from bipolar symptoms. This can lead to substance abuse disorders and other health complications.

Myth 2: Bipolar disorder mostly causes manic symptoms

Fact: Bipolar disorder causes several mood disturbances in addition to mania. Mania describes periods of increased activity, elevated mood, and impaired judgment.

Some people with mania can also experience delusions or hallucinations. And some people can experience hypomania, a less serious form of mania.

People with bipolar disorder can also experience depression, which can cause a decrease in energy levels and cause periods of deep sadness, hopelessness, and emptiness.

Myth 3: Manic episodes can be exciting

Fact: While manic episodes of bipolar disorder may make you feel good for a period of time, these episodes may also impair your judgment, cause increased irritability, and increase the risk for impulsive behaviors.

During a manic episode, you may be inclined to take more risks than you might otherwise take, and this could ultimately affect your relationships, your job, or your finances. Furthermore, the aftermath of a manic episode may take a long time to recover from, cause further stress, and worsen your condition.

Myth 4: I feel better, so I can stop taking my medications

Fact: If you’re taking medications for bipolar disorder, it’s vital that you don’t stop taking them without consulting with your doctor. Stopping medications abruptly or refusing to take them may lead to a return of your symptoms.

Ideally, if you feel better on the medications and with regular psychotherapy sessions, you should continue following your treatment plan to stay that way. If your current medications aren’t working, we can help you find ones that will effectively treat episodes of mania and depression.

A good treatment plan for bipolar disorder can help ease existing symptoms and also help prevent symptoms from occurring in the future.

To learn more about the facts of bipolar disorder, call 409-245-0795 or book an appointment online with InSynch Health today.

InSynch Health

✆ Phone (appointments): 281-721-4181

Email: frontdesk@insynchhealth.com

Fax: 949-757-6621

Address: 87 I-10 Service Road, Suite 125, Beaumont, TX 77707