One of the biggest problems with mental disorders in the United States is that a lot of people simply do not understand them. They don’t have a lot of information about them, and that leads to false assumptions and the rise of dangerous myths.
One such disorder is known as bipolar disorder. To help increase understanding, here are a few important facts that often go overlooked:
- Getting an inaccurate diagnosis is a real issue. In fact, the average time that it takes from the first symptoms to treatment is about 10 years. Part of the reason is that it takes a while for people to really know what’s going on.
- It can also take multiple doctors. In fact, about 50% of those who have bipolar disorder have to go to three medical professionals before someone figures out what is happening.
- Many patients do not even know what’s happening themselves About one out of every five patients tells their doctor that they think they may have depression instead.
- Often, bipolar disorder is not the only one that people have. They may have other psychiatric conditions, like anxiety or depression. They may struggle with substance abuse as a way of trying to cope. All of this can make it harder for medical professionals to really figure out what is wrong and what type of treatment people need.
If you do have bipolar disorder, it’s nothing to take lightly. It may change your life forever. It may mean you cannot work. It can impact your personal relationships. Make sure you know all of the legal options you have.
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