Everyone has highs and lows, so it isn’t anything to worry about.

Fact     Fiction

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Most people do have good and bad days, but when these seriously interfere with your ability to function, you should seek professional help.

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Medications are all you need to treat bipolar disorder.

Fact     Fiction

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Medications are certainly important; however, a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, exercise and sleep; effective coping skills; a support network; psychotherapy; and religious/spiritual practice can all contribute to the successful management of bipolar disorder.

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People with bipolar disorder don’t always have severe mood swings.

Fact     Fiction

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Most people with bipolar disorder have more episodes of depression than mania. Less dramatic manic states, called hypomanic episodes, can be subtle and go unnoticed by others.

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Once a person has their bipolar disorder under control, they don’t need their medication.

Fact     Fiction

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While bipolar disorder is highly manageable, the treatment of bipolar disorder is usually life-long.

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There are a variety of causes of bipolar disorder including both genetic and environmental factors.

Fact     Fiction

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While bipolar disorder does run in families, environmental factors such as extreme stress, sleep disruption, and drug or alcohol use may trigger bipolar disorder.

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People with bipolar disorder can recover. They may go on to hold jobs in many areas, including holding positions in jobs of authority such as law enforcement or government.

Fact     Fiction

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People with bipolar disorder can and do hold positions of authority everywhere. When properly diagnosed and treated, people with bipolar disorder can have highly successful careers.

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