Common Misconceptions about Bipolar Disorder

This short video debunks two common misconceptions about bipolar disorder: that it is a rare condition and that it is just mood swings. It emphasizes the prevalence of bipolar disorder and the extreme changes in energy, activity, and sleep that characterize the condition.

Let's look at common misconceptions that people have about those with bipolar disorder. Misconception number 1: Bipolar is a rare condition. In reality, bipolar disorder affects 2 million adults in the United States alone. One in five Americans has a mental health condition. Misconception number 2: Bipolar disorder is just mood swings, which everybody has. This is not true. The highs and lows of bipolar disorder are very different from common mood swings. People with bipolar disorder experience extreme changes in energy, activity, and sleep.