6 Myths About Bipolar Mania | Dr. Rami Nader

Bipolar mania is often misunderstood, and there are several common myths and misconceptions surrounding this condition. It's important to dispel these myths to provide a more accurate understanding of manic episodes and bipolar disorder. In this video, we address six common misconceptions. Firstly, bipolar mania is not simply a strong mood swing. While some may view it as a temporary change in mood, manic episodes are far more intense and destructive. The second myth is that people with bipolar mania are "crazy." This misconception stems from the dis-regulated and seemingly out-of-control behavior displayed during a manic episode. Symptoms like overjoyed feelings, rapid speech, racing energy, grandiose beliefs, illogical thinking, delusions, and irritability draw attention, leading to mislabeling. Another myth suggests that bipolar mania is synonymous with schizophrenia or that the conditions are interchangeable. However, these are distinct mental health disorders. It is also commonly believed that individuals with bipolar mania are always in the midst of a manic episode. In reality, manic episodes are episodic and characterized by high levels of activity and energy. However, it is impossible to sustain this level of intensity, leading to a crash and subsequent depressive episode. Another misconception is that bipolar mania can be easily cured with medication. While medication is a crucial component of bipolar disorder treatment, finding the right medication or combination can be challenging and time-consuming. Lastly, bipolar disorder and bipolar mania are not easy to diagnose and recognize. While manic episodes can be dramatic and have a significant impact on those around the affected individual, diagnosis is a complex process. Mood dysregulation alone does not confirm bipolar disorder, as it can be challenging to differentiate it from other conditions like borderline personality disorder, PTSD, or substance and medication effects.
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[@IanForsythWestCoast]

Is this speaking more towards Bipolar 1 and not 2? Eight years ago, I was diagnosed with BP 2, Mixed episodes, rapid cycling, when I was 60. It was a relief in some ways, because all of a sudden so much of my past now made sense, as did the elaborate work-arounds I had created out of ignorance and assumed everyone did.
I was told at the time that bipolar 2 didn’t have the extreme highs that were found in BP1, no movies were made, no careers created. My hypomania was more of the “life of the party” variety, and it could appear out of nowhere but be triggered by being in certain social situations, performing, or doing things like driving fast. The crashes were more exhaustion from being “on” for so long. I think most of my time is spent in low grade depression.
Is this the case regarding BP2, and do you have any videos discussing this variety? I’m not being treated currently, it’s difficult to access affordable mental health resources, but most of the medications we tried, seemed to offer little efficacy, even at very large doses, other than I experienced the side effects. I practice mindfulness, and have become aware of when I’m in a hypomanic state, but more work needs to be done of course, I didn’t find cognitive behaviour therapy personally helpful, but have seen it produce very positive results in other.
But back to my original question, it wasn’t specified, but I’m assuming this video was discussing BP1, is that correct? Thank you very much, I just discovered your videos today, and really like how you present the material.

[@Desiree82]

This was very informative and helpful. Thank you!

[@DrRamiNader]

You're very welcome. Glad you found it helpful!