“From the pinnacle of Apollo, my greatest challenge became the human one—overcoming alcoholism and living beyond depression—a challenge that required more courage and determination than going to the moon.” [1]
We all know Buzz Aldrin, a member of the Apollo 11 crew which paved the way for space travel. What we do not know is that following this historic mission, Buzz Aldrin faced a bigger challenge at home, perhaps tougher than setting foot on alien territory - the limelight, public scrutiny, and his struggle with Bipolar Disorder [1].
Bipolar disorder is a serious mental disorder in which basic emotions become intensely and unpredictably magnified. Patients with Bipolar Disorder may suffer from episodes of mania and hypomania in which they have an abnormally elevated or a ‘high’ mood and episodes of depression. The shifts in mood can be devastating as the individual may contemplate death or suicide. Signs of an episode of mania are irritation, insomnia, overconfidence, and extreme happiness, whereas, in a depressive episode, the patient may feel acute sadness, loneliness and low self-esteem [2]. In recent years with specialized research, detecting the illness has become easier. Discovering the illness is often tough as the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder may overlap with other mental illnesses like unipolar depression. Generally, individuals whose family members have the disorder are at a higher risk. Other factors that may lead to the disorder include stress, substance abuse, and traumatic events [3].
In the 1980s, while studying a group of students at the University of California, researchers Michael Strober and Gabrielle Carlson came to the conclusion that the teenagers suffering from depression were actually diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder [4]. According to data from The Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center, only one-third of the youths who came for treatment were accurately diagnosed [4]. Such incorrect judgements are a huge obstacle for patients on their road to recovery.
The inaccurate portrayal of Bipolar Disorder in the media greatly contributes to the stigma surrounding the illness and mental health in general. In most cases, only the “dramatic” side of the story is shown while the accurate portrayal of the illness with its management and treatment is often ignored. This may leave individuals suffering from the disease embarrassed by the misinterpretation and cause a naïve and impressionable audience to automatically form negative perceptions of the disorder [5]. However, in recent times the depiction of the disorder has become more realistic. In the American drama show ‘Shameless’, Ian suffers from Bipolar Disorder and relapses due to stress, fear, and confusion, common for patients with the illness [5]. Nonetheless, with the support of his family and friends and by following a consistent routine, he is able to live a stable life. A correct depiction of any mental illness is not only inspiring and motivating for those suffering but also helps the loved ones of the patient to understand what they are experiencing [5].
“The brain thrives on structure and routine, especially when you have a mental illness.” [6]. This is especially true in the case of Bipolar disorder, as consistent routines play a huge role in easing the symptoms of the disorder and in preventing a relapse. Research has shown that by setting a proper schedule for sleeping, eating, working, and socializing, a person suffering from the disorder can bring stability to their mood [6]. In a study conducted by clinical psychologist Ellen Frank, patients following a daily routine averted a manic and depressive episode for longer than those whose treatment just involved medication [7].
To conclude, with early detection, a great support system, and a healthy routine, individuals can lead a healthier life and not let Bipolar Disorder define them. Please contact a mental health professional if you feel like you or someone you know might be going through something similar.
References
[1] Aldrin, B., & Abraham, K. (2010). Magnificent Desolation: The Long Journey Home from the Moon. Three Rivers Press (CA)
[2] Bipolar disorder (2021) - Symptoms and causes https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bipolar-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355955
[3] Smith, K. (n.d.). Causes of Bipolar Disorder: Understanding the Risk Factors. Psycom.Net - Mental Health Treatment Resource Since 1996. Retrieved August 25, 2021, from https://www.psycom.net/bipolar-disorder-causes
[4] Abrams, Z. (2020, October). Treating bipolar disorder in kids and teens. Monitor on Psychology, 51(7). http://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/10/ce-corner-bipolar
[5] Sharelawyers. (2017, October 23). How is Bipolar Disorder Depicted in Pop Culture? https://www.sharelawyers.com/bipolar-pop-culture/
[6] Orenstein, B. W., & Sohrabi, F., MD. (2015, April 27). Optimize Your Routine for Bipolar Disorder | Everyday Health. EverydayHealth.Com. https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/living-well-bipolar-disorder/optimize-your-routine/
[7] Novotney, A. (2008, February). Consistent routines may ease bipolar disorder. Monitor on Psychology, 39(2). http://www.apa.org/monitor/feb08/consistent
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