Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme fluctuations in mood.
The mood fluctuations that people experience can includemania, hypomania,depression, and mixed episodes.
Statistics suggest that around 4.4% of adults in the U.S. have bipolar disorder.
Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
But this phrase is wrongbipolar disorder can kill.
Leave this cliche out of your repertoire.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
“Everybody Has Mood Swings Sometimes”
That’s true.
Even among those who do not have a diagnosable mental health disorder, people experience changes in mood.
“Everyone Is a Little Bipolar Sometimes”
This similar phrase is insensitive for the same reasons.
Maniacs are often portrayed as violent and deranged in popular culture.
Experiencingbipolar maniadoes not automatically mean that a person will be dangerous.
Bipolar disorder is also not the same thing asantisocial personality disorderorpsychopathy.
You should also be wary of any language that defines a person by their disorder.
A person is much more than a disease or illness.
Any person is liable to take offense at this statement, let alone a person with bipolar disorder.
Try being supportive andcompassionatewhen they share their worries, frustrations, and other concerns.
During mood episodes, people with bipolar disorder may struggle to keep up with the demands of daily life.
Ask if you’re able to help them with things like errands and making sure bills are paid.
Encourage Treatment Adherence
Treatment for bipolar disorder often includes medication and psychotherapy.
Let your words be encouraging and supportive, without marginalizing people with psychiatric disorders.
Understand that they may have mood swings.
Let them know that it’s possible to feel better with patience and the right treatment.
National Institute of Mental Health.Bipolar disorder.
2019;7(1):5.
Office on Women’s Health.Bipolar disorder.
Chakrabarti S.Treatment-adherence in bipolar disorder: A patient-centred approach.World J Psychiatry.
2016;6(4):399-409. doi:10.5498/wjp.v6.i4.399
