World Bipolar Day

Today is World Bipolar Day.

What is bipolar disorder? 

"The word bipolar means "two extremes." For the many millions experiencing bipolar disorder around the world, life is split between two different realities: elation and depression. Although there are many variations of bipolar disorder, let's consider a couple. Type 1 has extreme highs alongside the lows, while Type 2 involves briefer, less extreme periods of elation, interspersed with long periods of depression." - TED-Ed

TED-Ed: What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar is painful, scary, unsettling, and marked with feelings of desiring suicide, feeling worthless, and silent suffering.

What causes bipolar disorder?

"Researchers think a key player is the brain's intricate wiring. Healthy brains maintain strong connections between neurons thanks to the brain's continuous efforts to prune itself and remove unused or faulty neural connections. This process is important because our neural pathways serve as a map for everything we do. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, scientists have discovered that the brain's pruning ability is disrupted in people with bipolar disorder. That means their neurons go haywire and create a network that's impossible to navigate. With only confusing signals as a guide, people with bipolar disorder develop abnormal thoughts and behaviors. Also, psychotic symptoms, like disorganized speech and behavior, delusional thoughts, paranoia, and hallucinations can emerge during extreme phases of bipolar disorder. This is attributed to the overabundance of a neurotransmitter called dopamine.
But despite these insights, we can't pin bipolar disorder down to a single cause. In reality, it's a complex problem."

Bipolar disorder is not my full identity, but it has been a major part in defining who I am today. Bipolar disorder has affected the way I relate to people, how I feel towards myself, my patterns of thought and speech, and the very motivations I have to get through each day.

It is not a made-up excuse for laziness, lack of emotional control, or a demand for attention.

It is a reality - an actual illness that can be identified and treated, though there is no cure. The brain is a major part of who we are as fleshly, fallen creatures. Our souls are our paramount piece of existence, but our brains direct and influence our physical bodies the most. Thus, mental illnesses are no joke, no punchline, and no lie.

Mental illnesses exist. And they are recognized in millions upon millions of people all around the world.

Take the time to ask, research, and understand instead of stigmatizing, ridiculing, or judging.

Happy World Bipolar Day.





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