World Bipolar Day takes place each March 30th. On this day, members of the public worldwide are encouraged to use social media platforms to help spread information about the impacts of bipolar disorder to raise awareness and reduce the stigma of bipolar. Supporters of this event are encouraged to use the hashtags #WorldBipolarDay and #BipolarStrong.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), bipolar disorder affects about 45 million people worldwide and 2.8% of Americans. Among those diagnosed with bipolar, nearly 83% of cases are classified as severe. Learn about the benefits of a bipolar disorder treatment program in Florida at Harmony Hills. Call 855.494.0357.
The Importance of Bipolar Disorder Awareness
Living with bipolar disorder is highly challenging, as it causes disruptions in home life, work, relationships, financial stability, and physical health. Statistics from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) show that people with bipolar disorder are 20 times more likely to commit suicide than the general public. Further, they are seven times more likely to miss work, contributing to reduced productivity, employment, and financial instability.
The limited understanding and lack of awareness around bipolar disorder lead to harmful assumptions that these individuals are lazy, crazy, violent, out of control, possessed, or unsafe to be around. Their families and communities often shun those with bipolar. Bipolar awareness is crucial to people getting the help they need. With more education and understanding, it is possible to:
- Learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder
- Encourage people to seek the help they need
- Offer more support to those in need
- Help people better manage their condition
- Reduce the stigma of bipolar disorder
- Increase the rates of proper diagnosis
Bipolar disorder can be challenging to diagnose because it affects everyone differently, and it rarely exists on its own, so there can be overlapping or commingling symptoms of other disorders.
Additionally, even when they seek help, most people with bipolar disorder do not present a complete picture of their symptoms, focusing mainly on their depressive symptoms, not the manic ones.
Signs You Need Bipolar Disorder Treatment
Only a trained psychiatrist can diagnose bipolar disorder. Suppose you suspect that you or a loved one has bipolar disorder. In that case, it is advisable to make an appointment with your general practitioner, who can rule out medical reasons for your symptoms.
It is essential to understand that the manic and depressive episodes that characterize bipolar disorder are highly unpredictable. You might experience rapid cycling moods that frequently occur, making life seem out of control. Alternatively, you might have only a few cycles separated by periods where everything seems normal. The symptoms of bipolar disorder are divided into those for mania and those for depression and can include:
Signs of Mania
- Increased energy and feeling overly elated or hyper
- Becoming easily distracted
- Fast-talking with racing thoughts
- Decreased need for sleep
- Feeling extremely restless and being impulsive
- Having overconfidence in abilities
- Engaging in risky behaviors
Signs of Depression
- A feeling of hopelessness and despair that lasts at least two weeks
- Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Severe fatigue and lack of energy
- Significant changes in appetite
- Difficulty with memory, concentration, and decision-making
- Preoccupation with death or suicidal thoughts
Manic episodes are often viewed as periods of great productivity, but this is a frantic energy that can be very destructive. Most people only seek help when experiencing depressive episodes, which contributes to misdiagnosis. Being aware of the symptoms of both types of episodes can help receive an accurate diagnosis and ensure proper treatment.
Get Bipolar Disorder Treatment at Harmony Hills
Bipolar disorder doesn’t have to control your life. With proper treatment, you or your loved one can learn how to manage symptoms to keep bipolar in remission effectively. At Harmony Hills, we are committed to improving bipolar disorder awareness every day.
Our holistic approach to treatment, using evidence-based therapies, is the best way to lasting recovery. We provide top-rated mental health treatment in Florida. Call us today at 855.494.0357 to learn more about your options for bipolar disorder treatment.
