National charity Bipolar UK has launched a campaign to dispel common myths about bipolar disorder, responding to calls from those with lived experience to tackle misunderstandings that fuel stigma and discrimination. Despite over 1 million people in the UK living with the condition, misconceptions remain widespread, hindering support and acceptance for those affected.

Bipolar disorder is a severe mental illness marked by significant mood and energy shifts, far beyond typical emotional fluctuations. These changes can manifest as manic episodes, involving elevated or irritable moods and increased energy, or depressive episodes, characterised by sadness and hopelessness. According to Bipolar UK, 84% of individuals with bipolar feel society fails to grasp the realities of their condition, perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

Simon Kitchen, CEO of Bipolar UK, said: “Bipolar is unfortunately hugely misunderstood in society, with harmful stereotypes depicting those living with the condition as dangerous or erratic still common. This creates damaging misconceptions about those living with the condition and their ability to lead ‘normal’ lives, maintain employment, and be in healthy relationships. We are dedicated to dispelling these myths and creating a better understanding in society to ensure individuals with bipolar receive the understanding and support they need so they can thrive without judgement.”

Common myths about bipolar disorder

1. People with bipolar are dangerous or violent. Media often exaggerates links between bipolar and violence. Research shows individuals with bipolar are more likely to be victims of crime than perpetrators.
2. Bipolar is rare. Far from uncommon, bipolar affects over one million people in the UK, roughly one in 50, surpassing the prevalence of dementia.
3. Antidepressants are the main treatment. Antidepressants alone can trigger harmful mood episodes in bipolar patients. Treatment typically involves mood stabilisers, with combinations tailored to symptoms and phases.
4. Bipolar just means mood swings. Bipolar episodes, lasting weeks or months, are far more complex than simple mood swings, involving prolonged periods of mania or depression. Stable moods are possible with proper support.
5. Bipolar affects certain demographics more. The condition impacts all ages, genders, and backgrounds, with symptoms often appearing in teens or young adults, nearly half before age 21.
6. Bipolar is untreatable. While incurable, bipolar is manageable with medication, support, and workplace adjustments, enabling many to live fulfilling lives.
7. Mania is enjoyable. Manic episodes can feel euphoric but are often frightening, leading to irritability and risky behaviours.
8. Bipolar is hereditary. Bipolar has genetic links, but it is not strictly hereditary. Environmental and lifestyle factors also influence its development.
9. People with bipolar can’t hold down jobs. Many with bipolar excel in fields like law and arts, with lack of support, not ability, being the main barrier.

The charity highlights the critical issue of delayed diagnosis, with an average wait of 9.5 years. This leaves over 500,000 undiagnosed individuals in the UK without access to condition-specific treatment or advice, struggling to manage symptoms that could be controlled with proper support. A timely diagnosis enables access to effective treatments, psychological therapies, and self-management tools, empowering individuals to fulfil their potential.