The dictionary defines stigma as, “A mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.”
In this instance, stigma is associated with bipolar disorder. There is definitely “a mark of disgrace” accompanying bipolar disorder.
There are a number of ways we can help to stomp out the stigma of bipolar disorder.
First, let us take a look at how and why there is a stigma in the first place.
INTRODUCTION TO STIGMA
Most people do not take the time to learn about mental illness unless they are directly impacted. I know I fell into this category when I was younger.
Growing up, I never took a psychology class or a class about mental health or mental illness. My education about anything related to mental health was limited to pop culture and those closest to me. Most of my friends and family knew nothing about bipolar disorder.
I completely understand.
A ROOT OF STIGMA
Bipolar disorder is an illness. Unless you are a doctor or other medical professional, most people do not take the time to research sickness or other maladies. Even then, medical professionals are not properly trained about bipolar disorder (or mental illness and mental health) unless they specialize in psychiatry.
How is the general public supposed to understand bipolar disorder if those who are supposed to be treating it do not even have a basic knowledge about it?
Psychiatrists are specialists. They get extra training on how to treat different mental illnesses and other mental health issues.
The problem arises when general doctors, emergency personnel and other medical professionals that see patients on a regular basis, do not have the training or education to help those suffering from a mood disorder.
See how the breakdown in how information is siphoned through the mental health system contributes to the stigma surrounding bipolar disorder?
If those who are supposed to have the knowledge of bipolar disorder do not, how should we expect the general public to understand?
Please, do not get me wrong. It is not my intention to point blame.
My hope is by pinpointing one of the root causes of stigma, we can take action to reduce it in the future.
MISCONCEPTIONS
Some of these misconceptions can be easily clarified. The problem is getting the right information to those who need to hear it.
It may not feel like it but you can make a difference by simply correcting those who are spreading the wrong information.
There are countless misconceptions that I would like to clear up for you today.
Let us dive right in.
1. BIPOLAR DISORDER IS NOT SERIOUS
Downplaying the seriousness of bipolar disorder minimizes our daily fight with the bipolar battle. When you hear individuals candidly joke about bipolar disorder, they are contributing to the stigma surrounding it.
Yes, there are degrees of severity when it comes to this illness. The severity is regarding the symptomology. However, it does not matter what type of bipolar disorder you are diagnosed.
The type of bipolar is just a way to communicate the treatment route you should follow.
As a mental illness, bipolar disorder is extremely serious. It is not only an illness about mood fluctuations.
By the way, everyone experiences the daily ebb and flow of emotions. It is human nature.
Bipolar disorder increases the intensity of these mood fluctuations. It also directly impacts energy level, motivation and overall ability to function.
Suicide is also a real threat.
Is bipolar disorder serious?
You’re damn straight it is!
2. BIPOLAR DISORDER IS “THE IN THING”
Sensationalizing bipolar disorder is another way to minimize it.
Celebrities and those in the spotlight are “coming out” with their illness. Please do not get me wrong. I think any way we can open up the conversation about mental illness is a positive step forward.
The problem comes when those interpreting these actions digests the information as something cool. Then, the news spreads about this new exciting and mysterious phenomena.
Perceiving bipolar disorder as the “cool” or “in thing” downplays the seriousness of the illness.
In turn, this further contributes to the overall stigma.
3. “EVERYONE HAS A LITTLE BIPOLAR IN THEM”
You may have already caught on that these misconceptions come back to the idea that bipolar disorder is not serious.
I understand the whole premise of this statement.
Everyone has varying emotions throughout their lives. This is completely true and valid.
The misconception arises when people pair the normal ups and downs of life with that of bipolar disorder. They are completely and utterly different.
Only a medical professional can properly diagnose bipolar disorder.
No, everyone does not have a little bipolar in them.
4. YOU CAN TREAT BIPOLAR DISORDER WITH EXERCISE AND A HEALTHY DIET
If you could treat bipolar disorder with exercise and a healthy diet, you would never see any professional athlete with the diagnosis.
Granted, the seriousness and intensity of symptoms can vary extremely between patients. The first line of attack is the medical model – medication management and talk therapy.
When I was first diagnosed in 1999, my doctors hammered home the idea that I needed medication and therapy.
I have learned and am living proof of the importance of medication and therapy in my treatment plan.
For the long term management of bipolar disorder, I have found that healthy habits and choices directly impact my success.
I also eat healthy meals, drink plenty of water, and supplement on a daily basis.
No, exercise and a healthy diet will not cure bipolar disorder but they will help you successfully manage it.
5. BIPOLAR DISORDER IS THE END OF MY LIFE
This could not be further from the truth.
No one wants to hear that they are sick. I completely understand.
For me, my diagnosis of bipolar was a welcome relief. I learned that, yes I was sick, and I could do something about it.
I am a firm believer that with the proper treatment, bipolar disorder can be successfully managed. The hard part is navigating the path to the right treatment. That is the reason you have both a doctor and therapist to help guide you.
Most of my plans, goals, and aspirations were completely changed after I learned of my illness.
Bipolar disorder sets clear boundaries as to expectations and functionality.
With these boundaries, I know my limitations and strengths. They may not be apparent when you are first diagnosed but you will find them with time and further introspection.
Therapy is a wonderful tool to help build your self-awareness.
Bipolar disorder is not the end, it is only the beginning.
WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT STIGMA?
Advocates and advocacy groups are ways we can help break down the walls of stigma.
We have the power to enlighten those who have the wrong information and do not understand bipolar disorder.
The misconceptions about bipolar disorder are running rampant throughout our society. Most people already have a negative outlook regarding bipolar disorder.
If you are diagnosed with bipolar disorder, take positive action in your treatment. Work with your doctor, therapist and loved ones to create a crisis and treatment plan.
You can help stomp stigma by being a positive role model in how you manage your bipolar.
LAST THOUGHTS
I can’t tell you the number of times I have spoken to people who have no direct experience with bipolar disorder. They tell me all about their perceptions (or misconceptions).
Recently, a guy told me, “You don’t seem like you have bipolar disorder. I thought all of those people with bipolar disorder don’t take their meds and do whatever they want.”
I explained to him my story and how I manage my bipolar disorder on a daily basis in healthy and proactive ways.
With my treatment plan, I have put myself in the driver seat of my own life.
I don’t want it to seem like I am tooting my own horn.
It is my firm belief that if we can show to ourselves and society, that we are responsible for our illness and we are positive contributing members of society, we can help to destroy stigma.
Yes, it does start with one person.
That person is you!
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