Bipolar disorder, also called bipolar affective disorder (BPAD), causes extreme mood swings, including episodes of mania and depression. Researchers have studied its prevalence and impact in India. A nationally representative study across 12 Indian states between 2014 and 2016 found that BPAD currently affects 0.3% of the population, while 0.5% experience it in their lifetime.
Bipolar disorder significantly affects daily life, with two-thirds of individuals experiencing moderate to severe disability in various areas, including work, social interactions, and family life. The study found that 63% of individuals with BPAD struggle with work-related difficulties, 59.3% face challenges in social interactions, and 63% experience issues in family life.
Understanding Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme shifts in mood, energy levels, and behavior. These mood swings can range from episodes of mania or hypomania (high energy, impulsiveness, euphoria) to depression (low energy, sadness, hopelessness). These episodes can last for days, weeks, or even months, significantly impacting a person’s daily life, relationships, and ability to function.
During manic episodes, individuals feel extremely energetic, euphoric, or irritable, often making impulsive decisions and engaging in risky behaviors. In contrast, depressive episodes cause deep sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, sometimes leading to suicidal thoughts.
Doctors classify bipolar disorder into different types. Bipolar I Disorder involves manic episodes that last at least a week and may require hospitalization. Bipolar II Disorder includes less severe hypomanic episodes along with major depression. Cyclothymic Disorder causes frequent mood swings that do not fully meet the criteria for mania or major depression.
Scientists have not identified the exact cause of bipolar disorder, but genetics, brain structure, and environmental stressors contribute to its development. Doctors treat the condition with mood stabilizers, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments to help individuals manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Daily Struggles of Living with Bipolar Disorder
01. Impact on Sleep Patterns
Bipolar disorder significantly alters sleep patterns, affecting both mental and physical health. During manic episodes, individuals often feel highly energetic and require little to no sleep, leading to prolonged wakefulness and restlessness. In contrast, depressive episodes can cause severe insomnia, making it difficult to fall or stay asleep, or hypersomnia, where excessive sleep results in persistent fatigue and grogginess. These sleep disturbances impair concentration, decision-making, and daily functioning, negatively impacting work, and overall well-being. Chronic sleep disruption can also weaken the immune system, increase stress levels, and contribute to other health complications, making proper sleep management essential for stability.
02. Impact on Work Life
Bipolar disorder can significantly impact work life, making it challenging to maintain consistency and productivity. During manic episodes, individuals may feel highly energetic, take on excessive tasks, and make impulsive decisions, which can lead to conflicts with colleagues or poor judgment in professional settings. However, this phase is often followed by a depressive episode, characterized by fatigue, lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating, and absenteeism, making it hard to meet deadlines or stay engaged in work.
Frequent mood swings can affect communication, teamwork, and reliability, potentially leading to job instability or difficulty maintaining long-term employment. Stressful work environments can further trigger episodes, worsening symptoms. Proper management, including medication, therapy, and workplace accommodations, can help individuals maintain a stable and successful career despite these challenges.
03. Impact on Relationships
During manic episodes, individuals may become overly energetic, talkative, impulsive, or irritable, which can lead to conflicts, reckless decisions, or strained interactions with loved ones. In depressive episodes, withdrawal, sadness, and a lack of communication can make it difficult to maintain emotional connections, causing frustration or feelings of neglect in partners, family, and friends.
Frequent mood shifts can create unpredictability, making relationships stressful and challenging to sustain. Loved ones may struggle to understand the condition, leading to misunderstandings or feelings of emotional exhaustion. However, with proper treatment, open communication, and support from therapy or support groups, individuals with bipolar disorder can build and maintain healthy, fulfilling relationships.
04. Its Legal and Safety Concerns
Bipolar disorder can lead to legal and safety issues, especially during manic or depressive episodes. Manic episodes may cause impulsive or reckless behaviors, such as excessive spending, substance abuse, risky sexual encounters, or aggressive outbursts, which can result in legal trouble, financial problems, or strained relationships. Some individuals may engage in dangerous activities like reckless driving or unlawful actions without considering the consequences.
During depressive episodes, impaired judgment and suicidal thoughts can pose serious safety concerns. Individuals may neglect self-care, engage in self-harm, or be at risk of exploitation. Workplace or social conflicts due to mood instability can also lead to legal disputes.
05. Its Effects on Physical Health
Impulsive behaviors during manic episodes, such as substance abuse, reckless eating habits, or lack of self-care, can negatively affect overall well-being. Depressive episodes may lead to inactivity, poor nutrition, and weight fluctuations, further increasing the risk of physical health complications. Medication side effects, such as weight gain, drowsiness, or metabolic issues, also play a role in health challenges.
Proper management through medication, therapy, regular exercise, and a balanced lifestyle is crucial to minimizing these physical health risks and maintaining overall well-being.
Popular Indian Personalities With Bipolar Disorder
01. Asha Pillai, CFO, Shell’s Hazaria Group of Companies
Asha Pillai is a seasoned finance professional with a distinguished career at Shell, where she has held pivotal roles including Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for the Hazira Group of Companies, Shell’s gas business in India.
In 2016, at the age of 34, Asha was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Her personal experience with the condition has fueled her dedication to mental health initiatives. She openly shares her journey to combat stigma and inspire others facing similar challenges. Asha emphasizes the importance of a strong support system, crediting her family’s progressive mindset and her husband’s unwavering support in managing her condition while pursuing a demanding career.
Asha’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of community. She continues to balance her professional responsibilities with personal well-being, advocating for mental health awareness and serving as a role model for others navigating similar paths.
For a deeper insight into Asha’s journey, you can watch her sharing her experiences at I am Bipolar, This is My Story, or you can go through the following article: In conversation with Asha Pillai
02. Honey Singh, Indian Singer and Rapper
Hirdesh Singh, popularly known as Yo Yo Honey Singh, is a renowned Indian rapper, singer, and music producer who revolutionized the Indian music industry with his unique blend of Punjabi and hip-hop beats. However, at the peak of his career, he mysteriously disappeared from the music scene, leaving fans and the industry speculating about his absence. Later, he revealed that he was battling bipolar disorder and severe mental health challenges.
He described his journey as a dark phase. He experienced four different episodes of bipolar disorder, each lasting several months. The condition affected his confidence and ability to work, making it difficult for him to return to his passion. He also spoke about facing public scrutiny and rumors.
He resumed making music and shared his experience to raise awareness about mental health struggles, emphasizing the importance of seeking professional help. His story serves as an inspiration, highlighting that mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of success or fame, and that with the right support, recovery is possible.
Embracing Hope
Statistics show that about 1 in 150 people, or 0.3% of Indians, live with bipolar disorder, yet nearly 75% of those affected remain untreated. This highlights the urgent need for better awareness, diagnosis, and access to mental health care. Bipolar disorder deeply impacts daily life, affecting emotions, relationships, work, and overall well-being. Through personal stories, we gain a deeper understanding of the struggles and resilience of those living with it. These experiences emphasize the importance of proper treatment, strong support systems, and mental health awareness. By openly discussing bipolar disorder, we help break the stigma and encourage those affected to seek help without fear. With the right support and care, individuals can manage their condition and lead fulfilling lives, proving that hope and strength exist beyond the challenges.
