Myths about Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar Disorder, previously known as manic depression, is a mental health condition characterized by periods of depression and mania. The average age of onset is about 25, but it can occur in teens or, more uncommonly, in childhood. The condition affects men and women equally, with about 2.8% of the U.S. population diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and nearly 83% of cases classified as severe.
Bipolar Disorder is more stigmatized than other mental health issues. Some people assume Bipolar Disorder involves mood swings, but the reality is there are multiple types of Bipolar Disorder, each with its specific symptoms and characteristics. Another myth is that there is only one type of Bipolar Disorder, but there are three main categories of Bipolar Disorder. Moreover, people tend to believe there is no treatment for this Disorder, but different treatment options like medication or supportive psychotherapy effectively treat Bipolar Disorder. These myths or misconceptions could make life difficult for people who suffer from the Disorder and prevent them from receiving the treatment required.
Types of Bipolar Disorder
Three types of Bipolar Disorder are Bipolar 1, Bipolar 2, and Cyclothymic Disorder.
Bipolar 1
Bipolar 1 disorder is characterized by having defined episodes of both mania and depression. Depressive episodes are defined as a period of sadness, hopelessness, or a loss of interest lasting at least two weeks. During Manic episodes, people might experience at least three behavioral changes:
Sleeping less.
Talking quickly or loudly.
Being easily distractible.
Doing many activities at once.
Increased risky behavior.
Manic episodes are a period lasting at least a week.
Bipolar 2
If people have Bipolar 2 disorder, they experience depressive episodes, but rather than experiencing mania they experience something called hypomania. Hypomania is similar to mania but with less severe symptoms and may last as little as four days. People may still feel an elevated mood and increased energy but are less likely to take major risks or be noticeably more talkative and distractible.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Cyclothymic Disorder involves similar ups and downs to Bipolar 1 and Bipolar 2 Disorder, but the episodes are less severe. To be diagnosed with Cyclothymic Disorder, you have periods of hypomania and depression over at least two years. Cyclothymic Disorder can be harder to diagnose because many people don’t seek treatment as their episodes may be less extreme than other types of Bipolar Disorder. However, it can eventually develop into full-blown Bipolar Disorder if left untreated.
Treating Bipolar Disorder
If you’ve been feeling like your moods are all over the place or have noticed drastic shifts in moods of your loved one, you can contact Boston Neurobehavioral Associates. The providers at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates offer integrative care for people with Bipolar Disorder. With an accurate diagnosis, all three types of Bipolar Disorder can respond well to treatments such as psychotherapy and psychiatric medicine. If someone has Bipolar Disorder, the exceptional team at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates that is now offering services in Rhode Island can help. You can book an appointment by visiting www.bostonneurobehavioral.com or calling us.
