TRUE OR FALSE

All mental illnesses are complex and unique to each individual. This is why often people struggle to understand them, making it harder for them to support those they love who are suffering from a mental illness. That’s why we want to answer some true or false statements to help you gain a better understanding of bipolar disorder, an illness that affects around 5% of the world’s population.

1. FALSE Bipolar disorder causes extreme episodes of two different moods, depression and mania. Each episode can last for several weeks, or sometimes even longer. The mania experienced makes an individual feel very high and overactive, whereas the depression phase leaves individuals feeling very low and lethargic.

2. TRUE The exact cause of the disorder is not yet known. However, it is widely believed to be the result of chemical imbalances in the brain, or genetics. There are several things that are belived to be the triggers of the symptoms of bipolar. These include breakdowns of relationships, abuse, death of a loved one, physical illness and more.

3. TRUE Treatment for the disorder is essential in helping an individual live with the disorder. The treatment can reduce the severity and number of episodes of depression and mania. There are different medicines which can be taken to help, which are called mood stabilisers which can help significantly.

4. TRUE Many people find that psychological treatment, alongside medicine, can be helpful. There are several options for this treatment. These include psychoeducation, cognitive behavioural therapy, and family therapy.

5. FALSE There are three main types of bipolar disorder. Bipolar I involves severe mood episodes of mania and depression. Bipolar II disorder displays itself in a milder form of mood changes. The third is Cyclothymic disorder, a type of bipolar which displays itself in brief, milder episodes and brief depressive symptoms.