Bipolar disorder impacts approximately 1 in 200 people across the world. Pop culture and misinformation can lead to a certain belief about what bipolar disorder looks like, but in reality it can vary from person to person. At its core, bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme shifts in mood, ranging from periods of depression into periods of mania. This is an ongoing struggle, with mood changes affecting energy, focus, and motivation. Left untreated, it can cause fractured relationships, problems with school or work, and a decrease in day-to-day functioning overall.

There isn’t just one thing to pinpoint as the cause of bipolar disorder. Instead, it can be brought on by genetics, stress, trauma, and brain structure. To receive a diagnosis, a person needs to have experienced at least one manic or hypomanic episode. Typically, medical tests will rule out other potential causes, moving on to a psychiatric exam using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM) to diagnose and categorize the subset of bipolar disorder someone fits into. The different types of bipolar disorder include:

• Bipolar I: Characterized by one or more manic episodes that last at least 7 days.
• Bipolar II: Includes shifts between depression, hypomania, and natural functioning.
• Cyclothymia: Features frequent mood swings over an extended period of time.

Oftentimes, bipolar disorder exists alongside other mental health conditions and can be difficult to diagnose. This is why consulting with a professional is an important step toward managing the complex highs and lows that people face.

Many people suffer silently with bipolar disorder due to a fear of judgment, discrimination, or changes in relationships. Because of widespread misconceptions, people might assume those who have the disorder are dangerous or unpredictable. This can affect employment, personal relationships, education, and more. When that is the expected outcome of opening up to someone, it’s easy to understand why some people choose to keep their feelings to themselves. The best way to combat this is to amplify the conversation so the facts are more widely understood, leading to more empathy over apprehension. There are ways anyone can join the push toward greater awareness:

Use Your Voice

Your voice is one of the largest assets when it comes to raising more awareness about bipolar disorder. Talking about your own experiences or those you are familiar with can give people a greater understanding of what bipolar actually looks like. The more open the conversation is regarding mental health, the more comfortable others feel sharing their own stories or reaching out for help.

Learn and Teach

If you don’t feel as informed as you’d like to be about bipolar disorder, take some time to learn through reputable online sources, library books, or speaking with a professional. Share that education with others to encourage a deeper look at the disorder and the many ways it can show up.

Give Your Support

Share your support with those with bipolar disorder. Whether that involves helping them find professional help, listening to them, or simply checking in on them, your understanding and empathy can go a long way.

Commit Your Time

Get involved in local initiatives to amplify their work and mission. Support mental health organizations by giving donations, volunteering, or signing up to participate in events.