What We Wish People Knew About Bipolar Disorder
When others don't understand what bipolar disorder is or have misconceptions, it can be very frustrating for those living with the condition. Sammi shares what she wishes people knew about bipolar.
Today I'm going to talk to you guys about a few things that I wish people knew about bipolar disorder.
You Don't Simply Get Over It
The first thing I wish people knew is that you cannot simply get over bipolar. It's a lifelong, chronic illness that someone has to deal with for their whole life and a lot of people don't want to believe that.
They want to believe that with therapy or with some magical method you can get over it, whether that's with nutrition or alternative treatments, but in reality, it's something that you have to work on your whole life after you are diagnosed.
It's Not Simply Happy vs. Sad
Bipolar is not simply happy versus sad. There is a lot more to mania and depression than just feeling euphoric or miserable.
A lot of people have the idea that bipolar is rapid cycling. Someone just goes throughout their day being happy and sad, but for a lot of other people living with bipolar, we're not rapid cycling.
Some individuals with bipolar disorder are rapid cycling, but a lot of people aren't, and they have much longer episodes in their bipolar disorder.
Bipolar Disorder Is Unique to Each Individual
I wish people knew that bipolar is unique to each individual. As I said, some people are rapid cycling; some people have long episodes.
The symptoms will manifest differently in every person. You know there are general guidelines for the diagnosis of it, but it's unique to each.
Everyone will express symptoms a little bit differently. Everyone's going to cope with it a little bit differently so the illness is different to each and people bring their natures and personalities to the disorder.
Medication Can Be a Lifesaver
I wish people knew that medication can be a lifesaver.
A lot of people will diss medication or put a stigma on someone taking psychiatric medication, but medication can help someone cope with mania, help someone deal with depression or both.
