Bipolar disorder affects millions of people, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions. Misinformation creates stigma, prevents people from getting treatment, and makes recovery harder than it needs to be.
Let’s explore the most common myths and facts about bipolar disorder so we can replace confusion with clarity—and stigma with support.
Myth: Bipolar Disorder Is Just Mood Swings
Fact: While many people experience mood shifts from time to time, bipolar disorder involves much more than that. Individuals with bipolar disorder experience episodes of depression and mania or hypomania that can severely impact energy, behavior, sleep, and decision-making. These episodes may last for days or weeks and are often intense enough to disrupt daily life.
If you’re unsure whether you or someone you love may be dealing with something more than everyday emotions, a professional assessment can help. Learn more about our evaluation options on the Vanguard page for mental health treatment.
Myth: Bipolar Disorder Is Rare
Fact: According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 2.8% of adults in the U.S. experience bipolar disorder each year (NIMH, 2023). That’s millions of people—many of whom are undiagnosed or untreated. Bipolar disorder is not rare, but public understanding is still catching up.
We provide comprehensive support in our Albuquerque, NM location for individuals and families navigating a bipolar diagnosis.
Myth: There’s Only One Type of Bipolar Disorder
Fact: There are several types of bipolar disorder, each with its own symptom patterns. The most common include:
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Bipolar I Disorder: Defined by full manic episodes, often with depressive episodes as well
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Bipolar II Disorder: Involves hypomania (a milder form of mania) and more severe depression
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Cyclothymic Disorder: Involves numerous periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms that don’t meet criteria for full episodes
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Rapid Cycling: Four or more mood episodes in a year
Bipolar disorder can also present alongside trauma-related conditions. In some cases, symptoms of emotional dysregulation, flashbacks, or dissociation may point to a dual diagnosis of complex PTSD and bipolar disorder. Understanding the distinctions can lead to more targeted care.
Explore more on our bipolar disorder treatment page.
Myth: Bipolar Disorder Can Be Diagnosed with a Simple Test
Fact: Bipolar disorder cannot be confirmed with a blood test or brain scan. It’s a clinical diagnosis made through detailed interviews and assessments by mental health professionals. The process includes evaluating mood history, behavior patterns, and ruling out other causes, like thyroid disorders or trauma responses (American Psychiatric Association, 2022).
Myth: Mania Is Just a High or Creative Boost
Fact: While some people initially feel energized during a manic episode, mania can quickly turn into agitation, impulsivity, sleeplessness, or even psychosis. Manic episodes may involve risky behavior like overspending, unsafe sex, or grandiose thinking. In severe cases, hallucinations or delusions can occur, making mania a serious mental health event requiring treatment (WebMD, 2023).
Our inpatient care programs provide stabilization and safety during these challenging moments.
Myth: You Can Only Be in One Mood State at a Time
Fact: Mixed episodes are when a person experiences symptoms of both depression and mania simultaneously—such as feeling hopeless while also feeling restless or wired. These can be particularly overwhelming and may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts (American Psychiatric Association, 2022).
Myth: People With Bipolar Disorder Can’t Live Stable Lives
Fact: With proper treatment, individuals with bipolar disorder can thrive. Many maintain careers, relationships, and a strong sense of self. Therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes medication can lead to long-term stability.
Some individuals may benefit from dual diagnosis treatment, especially when bipolar disorder coexists with substance use or trauma. An integrated approach can help address the full picture of someone’s mental health.
Our flexible outpatient treatment programs are built to support long-term recovery, both emotionally and physically.
Myth: Only Adults Can Be Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder
Fact: Bipolar disorder most often begins in the late teens or early 20s, but it can also occur in children and adolescents. Diagnosis in younger individuals may be more complex because symptoms can mimic other conditions like ADHD or behavioral issues (National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2021).
If you’re a parent navigating concerns about your child or teen, our team provides family-focused therapy and assessments.
Myth: Everyone With Bipolar Disorder Needs Hospitalization
Fact: Many individuals with bipolar disorder never require hospitalization. While inpatient care can be important during severe episodes, others find support in residential treatment programs or ongoing outpatient care. What matters most is finding the right level of support that meets the person’s needs and stage of recovery.
Visit our contact page to talk through your care options and get started.
Myth: Medication Is the Only Way to Manage Bipolar Disorder
Fact: While medication can be a powerful tool—especially for mood stabilization—therapy and lifestyle changes play just as important a role. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, sleep regulation, and stress reduction can dramatically improve quality of life.
Some people find success managing bipolar disorder with therapy alone. Others may need additional support to address co-occurring depression or trauma-related symptoms. Learn more about identifying depressive episodes by reading our guide on signs and symptoms of depression.
Our individual therapy programs help clients build customized coping strategies and practical tools for long-term wellness.
You’re Not Alone—Help Is Here
Bipolar disorder can feel confusing, overwhelming, or isolating. But you’re not alone. With compassionate care and evidence-based treatment, recovery is within reach. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or still exploring what you’re experiencing, Vanguard Behavioral Health is here to guide you toward clarity, connection, and healing.
If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out to us today.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2022). What are mixed features in bipolar disorder? https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/bipolar-disorders/what-are-mixed-features
National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Bipolar disorder statistics. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/bipolar-disorder
National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2021). Myths and facts about bipolar disorder. https://www.nami.org/bipolar-and-related-disorders/myths-and-facts-of-bipolar-disorder/
WebMD. (2023). Bipolar disorder myths and facts. https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-disorder-myths-facts
