How a person with bipolar thinks: Ask the expert
Understanding bipolar disorder
Bipolar is often a misunderstood condition. However, our search volume analysis shows that lots of us are curious to find out more about it. With so much information online, it can be hard to know what to believe. That’s where our experts come in.
Dr Pablo Vandenabeele is the Clinical Director for Mental Health at Bupa UK. He is passionate about dispelling harmful myths associated with mental health conditions like bipolar:
“It’s promising that more of us want to learn about bipolar symptoms, but it’s important the information we find is trustworthy to avoid spreading harmful misconceptions.
“We’ve explored worldwide online searches with some of the biggest annual increases to share the truth about bipolar.”
Bipolar disorder: your popular searches
Our experts have taken a closer look at the internet’s top search terms† to help you be clear on the facts.
Bipolar means what?
Three times more searches
Our data shows searches for 'bipolar means what' have tripled. Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects your mood and behaviour. It's broken down into types and subtypes.1
It’s likely to bring mood episodes that swing from high to low. This varies from mania to depression.2 Some people may experience psychotic symptoms during their episodes.3
Others may have periods where they feel well in between them.2
There are two main types of bipolar:
- Bipolar disorder I
- Bipolar disorder II
What else do the search engines say?
Other searches that have grown in popularity included:
Bipolar paranoia examples
Three times as many searches.
Free online bipolar test
Twice as many searches.
Manic state
Two times more searches.
Blackout rage bipolar
Searches have doubled.
Mixed manic
Two times as many searches.
Family therapy bipolar
Four times as many searches.
Bipolar with seasonal pattern
Twice as many searches.
Common questions about bipolar disorder
Can bipolar be genetic?
Twice as many searches
Genetics is believed to play a role in whether a person develops bipolar. This is because it often runs in families.
However, there hasn’t been any one gene identified that directly causes bipolar. It’s thought that a combination of genetic and environmental factors leads to a person developing the condition.
Are bipolar people manipulative?
Twice as many searches
Bipolar does not make a person manipulative. Some with bipolar may have manipulative traits, but this isn't a symptom of the condition.
Some people with bipolar may experience short-term psychosis during mood episodes. Psychosis can sometimes be confused with other personality disorders. This can make a person more likely to manipulate others.
Why are more of us interested in bipolar?
Dr Vandenabeele weighs in:
“We’re gradually getting better at talking about all aspects of our mental health, and it’s great to see that bipolar is no exception. It can be helpful when celebrities with bipolar are candid about their diagnosis and symptoms, as it can encourage others to seek help if they’re feeling a similar way.
“However, our research shows many of us still inaccurately associate bipolar with other conditions.
“Online searches for bipolar are frequently paired with other conditions, like schizophrenia and autism. Though some symptoms for these conditions may be similar to bipolar, it’s important to remember they’re separate mental health concerns and need different treatment to be managed properly.”
Living with bipolar disorder
Get information about getting a bipolar diagnosis, how to manage symptoms, and when to seek support.
How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?
Speak to a health professional if you think you're experiencing bipolar symptoms. They’ll discuss:
- your moods
- your medical history
- symptoms
You'll receive a treatment referral if there's evidence to indicate bipolar disorder. You'll be treated by either a psychiatrist or specialist mental health service.
Bipolar disorder treatment
Bipolar isn’t curable. After a diagnosis it is managed with the help of a health professional. Treatment may involve:
- possible combinations of medication for bipolar
- talking therapies
- self-help measures
Together with a health professional, you can develop an individual treatment plan.
How to help someone with bipolar
Saying or doing harmful, upsetting and embarrassing things is common during a mood episode.
When your loved one’s episode has ended and they’re feeling well, it can be beneficial to reflect openly on their episode together.
Talking together can help you to put together an action plan when you spot manic signs in your loved one that happen before a mood episode and check in with them.
Bipolar support groups
Coping with bipolar can be hard, whether you’re the one with a diagnosis or supporting someone with one. If you’re struggling, or just want to talk to others sharing similar experiences to yours, make use of specialised bipolar support groups.
Mind has information on a range of services, both face-to-face and online.
Learn more about mental health
Coping with depression
Learn more about depression and the support options that are available to you. Whether you live with depression, or support someone who does, we’re here.
Talking about mental health
Whatever mental health condition you’re living with, speaking about it can be hard. Learn how to talk about depression and mental health with others.
Looking after mental health
Taking time to care for your mental health is important. Just as much as your physical health. Understand how to keep mentally healthy with our guide.
Support when you need it most
Speak to a GP without the wait
If you have symptoms related to cancer, mental health or muscles, bones and joints, speak to a GP quickly over the phone with Direct Access.‡
Bipolar disorder in detail
Understand the symptoms, causes and treatment pathways related to bipolar disorder.
1 Mind, 2022.
2 Bupa, 2020.
3 Mind, 2022.
†Based on internal analysis of Google Keyword Planner volumes, March 2023 - February 2024
‡Any onward referrals for consultations, tests or treatment are subject to the benefits and exclusions of your cover. For example, if your cover excludes conditions you had before your cover started, we may ask for further information from your GP. Please check your guide and certificate for further details or contact us to check your eligibility.
