Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Stories, struggles, and support (2)

IN our last discussion, we talked about bipolar disorder, the signs we often overlook, and how it shows up in everyday life, using Ms. Grace’s story as an example. We saw how what some may label as “moodiness” or “drama” could actually be symptoms of something much deeper, something that affects not just moods, but relationships, career, and general well-being. Let’s now go a little deeper into what bipolar disorder really looks like, and how understanding the different types can help us better support those affected.

Not everyone with bipolar disorder has the same experience. Some people have dramatic, intense highs that are obvious to those around them, while others may experience more subtle mood shifts that go unnoticed. There are different types of bipolar disorder, and each comes with its own pattern.

Bipolar I, for example, involves extreme manic episodes that may last at least a week and often require hospitalization. These episodes can be so intense that the person may lose touch with reality. It is usually followed by deep periods of depression. During manic phases, people may speak rapidly, sleep very little, spend recklessly, or take dangerous risks. But when the crash comes, they may barely have the energy to get out of bed. These mood swings are not just emotional, they affect thinking, behavior, and functioning.

Bipolar II does not reach the same manic heights but involves hypomania, a milder form of mania, along with depressive episodes. Hypomania can sometimes be mistaken for just being “energetic” or “overproductive,” which makes it even easier to miss. Sadly, this often means the depressive side is what gets noticed. The deep sadness, hopelessness, and withdrawal experienced during the depressive phase can easily be mistaken for laziness or a bad attitude.

Some people live with Cyclothymic Disorder, a form of bipolar that is often misunderstood because the mood changes are more subtle. Imagine living with emotional turbulence that never reaches the peak of full mania or the depth of major depression, but it never quite levels out either. A person with cyclothymia might be described as “moody” or “inconsistent,” always either a little up or a little down. It may not seem serious from the outside, but inside, it can be mentally exhausting. Over time, the persistent ups and downs can make it difficult to sustain a stable job, maintain relationships, or even believe in one’s own emotional stability.

And then there are those who don’t fit neatly into any category. Some people have mixed episodes, where they feel both energized and deeply sad at the same time. Others have rapid cycling, multiple mood episodes within a single year, or even within a month. That’s why diagnosis isn’t just about checking boxes. It takes a trained professional, someone who listens carefully and looks beyond surface behavior.

One of the most heartbreaking things is that many people go undiagnosed for years. Imagine struggling with your thoughts, your mood, and your sense of self without understanding why you feel the way you do. Some are told they are too sensitive, or too lazy, or that they are being manipulated by spiritual forces. Others are mocked, judged, or even punished for what is essentially a medical condition. That is why awareness is key, so that we can move away from judgment and toward empathy and action.

The good news is, bipolar disorder can be managed. With the right combination of treatment and support, people with bipolar can live stable, productive, and fulfilling lives. Treatment usually involves medication, and yes, in many cases, it is for life. This is not to say the person will feel sick forever, but rather that the medications help regulate mood and prevent episodes that can derail their lives. Mood stabilizers are often prescribed, along with antidepressants or antipsychotics, depending on the symptoms. It’s important to know that finding the right medication can take time, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. That’s why regular follow-up with a mental health professional is important.

But medication alone is not enough. Therapy helps people understand their condition, identify triggers, and develop healthier ways of coping. Support from family and friends also makes a huge difference. Imagine trying to manage such an intense condition all alone. A kind word, a check-in call, or just sitting with someone without judgment can be life-changing.

Sometimes, the person with bipolar disorder may not even realize when their mood is shifting. That’s why having loved ones who are observant and supportive can make a big difference. They can help identify patterns and encourage the person to seek help early before things spiral. It’s also helpful when those around them are educated about the condition so they don’t mistake symptoms for bad behavior or rudeness. When people know better, they do better.

It’s important to mention that bipolar disorder, like many chronic conditions, doesn’t necessarily go away. There’s no magic pill that makes it vanish completely. For many, it’s a lifelong condition, but one that can be managed. Think of it like managing high blood pressure or diabetes, it requires a mix of treatment, monitoring, and lifestyle changes. With time, many people with bipolar disorder come to understand their triggers, signs, and what works for them. It’s not a straight road, but many learn to navigate it successfully.

Some people ask if it’s okay to dream big with bipolar disorder, to fall in love, to marry, to have children, to start a business. The answer is yes. People with bipolar disorder can and do live full, meaningful lives. What they need is support, patience, understanding, and access to professional care. They may need to plan more carefully and be more mindful of their mental health, but their dreams are just as valid, and very much achievable.

Above all, we must stop treating people with mental illness like they are less than. Their illness is not their identity. They are not broken. They are navigating something difficult, often silently, and they deserve our kindness and support.

In the next episode of Mental Health Diary, we will look into how bipolar disorder affects relationships, how loved ones can help without losing themselves in the process, and how to encourage treatment without creating shame.

Bola Otegbayo