I know it’s one that both villainized and sensationalized by media, I want to know what it’s really like and not some fear-mongering missinformation a lot of people spread. Thanks
In: Biology
A disorder I wouldn’t wish upon anyone. Other comments have done an amazing job explaining it.
It’s absolute hell for the individual and their loved ones if they’re unmedicated and not in therapy. You might be able to get by without the therapy but I personally think it’s a requirement if you or someone you care about wants to have a stable life. If you’re not the one diagnosed the trauma caused by loving someone who is is just excruciating and isolating. Support groups help some, your own personal self care is important too of course.
My spouse is diagnosed and it’s a requirement for both of those things to happen and it’s even better when the therapist and doctor can interact as well. The second one of those drops off it’s always bad.
It’s hard when you know the person you love is capable of so much can turn into a person you start to question about. They’re are not them when they’re in an episode. They’re in there somewhere behind those eyes..
I believe the disorder is degenerative meaning it will get worse over time and change brain matter if untreated.
Anecdotally after many support groups, doctors and therapists we’ve been through the biggest thing is people with bipolar are truly their own worst enemy. It’s extremely common that the second they feel fine it’s highly likely they will stop treatment and thus the cycle of destructive behaviors begin that will lead them to the depression/despair to get back on meds to feel great again and stop again.
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