Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects a person’s mood, energy, activity, and thinking patterns. It is characterised by episodes of mania (or hypomania) and depression, which can significantly impact daily life if left unmanaged.
According to the World Health Organisation, “an estimated 1 in 200 people (around 37 million) live with bipolar disorder worldwide.” The organisation further notes that “bipolar disorder is associated with significant disability and difficulties in many areas of life.”
WHO also highlights a critical concern: many individuals with bipolar disorder are either misdiagnosed or do not receive adequate treatment, often facing stigma and discrimination that further delays care.
This World Bipolar Day, we spoke to Dr Vivian Kapil, Consultant Psychiatrist at SRM Prime Hospital, to break down some of the most common myths surrounding bipolar disorder, and what people often get wrong about this condition.
For your daily dose of medical news and updates, visit: HEALTH
Bipolar disorder is not just 'mood swings'
Dr Vivian Kapil says one of the most common misconceptions is that bipolar disorder is simply about frequent mood changes. “The most common myth is that bipolar disorder is just mood swings. The main thing is, it’s not as simple as that,” he explains.
He clarifies that bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition marked by distinct episodes. “It’s not just normal fluctuations in mood that many of us experience. There are clear-cut episodes of mania or hypomania, and periods of depression that can last for days to weeks.” These episodes, he adds, significantly impair daily functioning, affecting judgment, sleep, behaviour, and overall quality of life.
People are not always ‘high’ or ‘low’
Another widespread myth is that individuals with bipolar disorder are constantly either manic or depressed. Dr Kapil notes that this is far from reality. Most individuals experience stable phases in between episodes.
“People think individuals with bipolar disorder are always either high or low. But that is not true. They can have stable states, which we call a euthymic state, especially when they are on adequate treatment,” he says.
He emphasises that bipolar disorder is episodic, not continuous. With proper treatment, the frequency and severity of episodes can be reduced.
Mania is not the same as being happy or productive
The idea that mania simply means feeling happy or highly productive is another misconception that needs correction. “Mania is not just feeling good or being happy,” Dr Kapil explains. “People in a manic episode can be highly impulsive, excitable, and may exhibit abnormal behaviour.”
He adds that such individuals may develop inflated self-esteem, engage in risky behaviours, and have impaired judgment. Sleep is often reduced, and their actions can lead to serious personal, social, financial, or occupational consequences.
“It’s very unlikely that someone in a manic episode will be productive; in fact, it is more often destructive,” he notes.
Bipolar disorder is not rare
Many people assume bipolar disorder is uncommon, but Dr Kapil points out that it affects a significant portion of the population. “Bipolar prevalence is almost one to two per cent of the total population,” he says.
However, it is often underdiagnosed, particularly in India, due to limited access to mental health services and a lack of awareness. “Many times, it is mistaken for a normal depressive episode or even seen as part of someone’s personality.”
A diagnosis does not mean the end of a normal life
There is also a fear that a bipolar diagnosis means lifelong limitations and inability to lead a normal life. Dr Kapil stresses that while bipolar disorder is a chronic condition, it is treatable and manageable. “Even though it is a chronic condition, it can be treated with medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes,” he explains.
With proper treatment and regular follow-up, individuals can lead stable and fulfilling lives. “Many patients can have successful family lives, careers, and relationships, as long as they adhere to treatment and stay in touch with a mental health professional.”
This story is done in collaboration with First Check, which is the health journalism vertical of DataLEADS
