TRUE OR FALSE
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects your mood, which swings from one extreme to another. But how much do you know about it? Find out by taking our true or false quiz.
It used to be known as manic depression
☐ True ☐
False It’s hereditary
☐ True ☐ False
It can be treated
☐ True ☐ False
It affects men more than women
☐ True ☐ False
People with bipolar disorder know what they are doing
☐ True ☐ False
1. TRUE People with bipolar disorder have episodes of depression, where they feel very low and lethargic, and mania, where they feel very high and overactive. The symptoms vary depending on which mood they’re experiencing. Unlike simple mood swings, each extreme of bipolar disorder can last as long as several weeks, or longer.
2. FALSE The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown – although it’s believed a number of things can trigger an episode. These include extreme stress, overwhelming problems, life-changing events and genetic and chemical factors.
3. TRUE If treated properly, people with bipolar disorder can live life as normally as possible. Treatment includes medicines to prevent episodes of mania and depression, known as mood stabilisers, taken daily on a long-term basis. Other treatment includes learning to recognise triggers and psychological treatment such as talking therapy. It is thought a combination of treatment is the best way to control bipolar disorder.
4. FALSE Bipolar disorder is fairly common, with around one in every 100 people getting diagnosed at some point in life. Men and women from all backgrounds are equally likely to develop it. It can occur at any age, although it often develops between the ages of 15 and 19, and rarely after 40.
5. FALSE Bipolar disorder is a condition of extremes, and a person may be unaware when they’re in a manic phase. When the episode is over, they may be shocked at their behaviour – but at the time, they may think people who are trying to help them are being negative or unhelpful. People with bipolar disodered may also experience psychosis, hallucinations or delusions.