Fight the Stigma
Stereotypes are harmful, contributing to discrimination and under-treatment. The correct of stereotypes builds an understanding and cultural safety. By providing research-based explanations of bipolar disorder, comparing stereotypes with facts, debunking common myths, and highlighting respectful language guidelines, we protect vulnerable communities.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is characterized by intense mood swings that vary from emotional highs and lows. Those with bipolar may experience mania, hypomania or depression. Bipolar disorder may also affect an individual's ability to carry out everyday tasks, impacting relationships, careers, finances, and physical health.
Myths
Myth: Bipolar Disorder is just mood swings.
Reality: People with bipolar disorder experience higher intensity emotions with peaks and valleys that may last days, weeks, or months, with or without a triggering event.
Myth: Bipolar Disorder is rare.
Reality: The condition affects 7 million people in the U.S. and 45 million worldwide.
Myth: Patients can stop treatment once they feel better.
Reality: Bipolar disorder is a lifelong chronic illness.
Myth: Medication is enough to treat bipolar disorder symptoms.
Reality: Medications vary, all patients with bipolar disorder should follow a healthy lifestyle.
Stigma within Families of Those with Bipolar Disorder
Stigma is common within families of those living with bipolar disorder, the parents of such patients, look for the causes of the disease and experience issues such as guilt attribution and social exclusion due to having a family member with the disorder. This type of stigma contributes to decreased self-esteem, sleep disorders, decreased well-being, and a reduction of the quality of life. About 50-60% of people living with neurological disorders do not seek treatment due to these stigmas, and cites family stigma as a reason for the delay in counseling because of concern about people's thoughts. Additionally, stigma increases the risk of suicide in people living with bipolar disorder, their families being cited as one of the causes.