The Differences Between ADHD & Bipolar Disorder

To contact me directly and get answers to your questions, join me on Patreon: / polarwarriors
I've had MANY people ask me what the differences are between ADHD and Bipolar Disorder. This makes sense on so many levels and we're going to explore this topic thoroughly. I've spoken with countless people who were misdiagnosed with ADHD as a child, when it was in fact Bipolar Disorder all those years. Waiting until their adult life falls apart to find out they've been receiving the wrong care their entire life is beyond frustrating. In fact it's downright devastating.
I was reading some research by a Harvard Psychology Teacher who had some amazing insight into this topic. His name is Roberto Olvardia if you want to check out his work. The way he described the similarities and differences between ADHD and Bipolar Disorder were spot on. We are going to explore many of these in this video from Polar Warriors!
There are millions of people in the US alone with Bipolar Disorder. Studies have shown that up to 70% of people with Bipolar Disorder also have ADHD which really surprised me. About 20% of people with ADHD will develop Bipolar Disorder. When someone has both (which we call a co-occurring disorder), the lines can get really blurred. This is where most of the misdiagnoses come from.
If someone has both ADHD and Bipolar Disorder, they can enhance each other in some very negative ways. This can include even stronger ADHD symptoms and an earlier onset of Bipolar Disorder at a younger age. Hopefully by the end of this video, you will have a much better understanding of both the differences and similarities these illnesses share.
My channel is completely dedicated to helping individuals, families, and friends who struggle with, or know someone living with Bipolar Disorder. My goal is to provide actual tools, tips, and discuss topics that can potentially help “Polar Warriors” grow to live a more balanced, peaceful, and fulfilling life.
-Rob Whittaker, Polar Warriors: Bipolar Support
HELPFUL LINKS & ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
-Check out my Partner, The International Bipolar Foundation for some amazing FREE Bipolar resources: www.ibpf.org/
*FACEBOOK: / polarwarriors
*BECOME A PATRON: / polarwarriors

[@AuthenticMentalHealth]

Thank you so much for this!

[@yvonnebratcher6773]

Thank u .diagnosed 30 yrs with AdHd and Bi polar. Never have mania. Im depressed all the time..i take on 1 mood.stabizer .is my Diagnosis wrong?

[@markuss4133]

Same here

[@DebbieDavis-ff2zx]

Interesting thanks

[@Mus4shi15]

“Sometimes you have to lose your mind to come to your senses” … you have no idea how profound this quote is 🙏🏼

[@movingnaturefilms]

I was misdiagnosed ADD/ODD at 13. I found out I had Bipolar at 36. All those years of struggle. I'm now 39 and have my shit together, rebuilding my life, and relationships. It's actually going very well. There is hope my friends.

[@ameerahlaura1387]

Tim Standaert hi there Tim ! Pls share how you rebuild your life ...

[@conArtistAUS]

I feelyou brother

[@8v71buses]

Tim Standaert Wow your story sounds nearly similar to mine’s. I was also misdiagnosed with ADHD during my childhood but then three years ago at age 33 I was probably diagnosed with BP2 and years I started to wonder if I really was Bipolar because I’d either over joyful and confident and very active but then out of the blue I’d start feeling depressed and I’d isolate myself from everybody or I’d lose interest in the things I enjoy doing. I’m now 36 and I’m now in a much better place mental health wise and I haven’t had any major depression since then 🤩😁

[@meganmckinney1105]

Thank you for the encouragement! I'm 36 and have only now been "shown the light", so to speak. Knowing that there is hope and that maybe I, too, can get my shit together and rebuild my life by age 39, literally helps guide me on a better path. Thank you.

[@jacobvickers4643]

yea thats me too

[@BecomeUseful]

I have Bipolar II and ADHD. I appreciate what you do so much. So many doctors don't bother explaining or putting things in context. A resource like yours helps us get the most out of our doctors as well as helping us make our loves ones understand.

[@theresadennis8157]

He is so amazing I can understand what he is saying sitting in the doctors chair is intinateding ecpecially when you really don't know what is wrong with you

[@animeashogoshi]

I also have Bipolar Disorder and ADHD. May I ask how you deal with it?

[@BecomeUseful]

AnimeAshOgoshi I can share some of my experience. Dealing with ADHD and Bipolar is a challenge. To live with either you need to manage your sleep, diet, activity and emotional state. Bipolar and ADHD make that very difficult. Also ADHD makes it hard to develop healthy habits because it is difficult to practice. So here is how I try to work around these. 1) For Bipolar I focus on my meds. I take them on time and I understand what the do. I work with my Dr to make sure my doses and meds are the best possible. This provides stability. 2) ADHD I take my meds and work with my therapist on building better habits/skills. I try to identify ways I get stuck and we practice new ways of approaching problems. 3) Wellness. Sleep, diet, exercise help us manage our conditions and get the most out of life. It is difficult for me addressing wellness, so I try to have micro goals. Goals so simple I can do them everyday. Then I try and build on these goals to do more. Building confidence is important because ADHD and Bipolar can really bring us down.

[@SquishyKittens]

​@@BecomeUseful Are you taking a stimulant? Have you had any trouble with them triggering bipolar symptoms?

[@BecomeUseful]

I am taking a stimulant. It hasn’t triggered mania in me. If you have ADHD and you’re on the right med/dose then the stimulant has the opposite effect it would have for most people. However I have had antidepressants trigger mania.

[@VictoriaAshley23]

I had the opposite. I was misdiagnosed with bipolar (despite never, ever having a "magical mania" feeling, never engaging in manic behavior, and always having a reason (situational) when I was depressed.) I was put on meds that did more harm than good and it wasn't until I was an adult that I *finally* got the right diagnosis of ADHD, medication, and treatment. My life is so much better now. Although I really wish I didn't have to wait so long to get the correct diagnosis, but because I was a girl, I wasn't flunking school, nor running around the classroom hyper, I suffered for a long time and was given medication I didn't need. However, I'm thankful it was finally figured out and I'm on the right path.

[@lipsiekins845]

This is me omg 😢

[@ibear162]

Me too😭😭

[@victorhanson5799]

Does anyone *in a manic episode* feel like they’re car is on neutral but they’re foot is down on the gas taccing the engine up to 5 or 6

[@conArtistAUS]

My brain goes MANGMANGMANGMANG 24/7, beer does NOT HELP

[@wasaaddict2453]

Omg can’t believe u said this, I get this feeling too wow 😳❤️

[@jacobvickers4643]

yea i do, thats that anger rage

[@regierse]

Yes!

[@LuckyReflex619]

Yep

[@grammyd8361]

I was never treated for either and didn't get treatment until I was in my 60's. I was depressed and suicidal since I was 5 yrs old and have been all my life. I now am on meds for my bipolar and depression. I don't think about suicide anymore. I had a very tough time as a child with this. I also have CPTSD and insomnia for all my life. The meds help me now and am so fortunate to be alive. Thank you very much for what you do Robert. I've given your site to the counsellors at our local crisis center. It has helped them to help others. You are very appreciated.

[@kelbellhop38]

Grammy D thanks for sharing I’m 54 and I appreciate your comments Much Love

[@friendlyvampire5106]

I was diagnosed with ADHD, at first and a couple years later, just a few days ago, i was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder Type 2. I still believe i have ADHD but a less severe form.

[@destreestutzman7814]

Me too. I feel dumbfounded. I still take my adhd meds.

[@seansean2506]

Me too just found out Monday. I’m devastated and I haven’t told anyone until just now

[@TheKarret]

I got diagnosed with Bipolar 1 after a psychotic break; but I also highly suspect I have ADHD and want to get assessed for it asap. I've been thinking I have ADHD since before I had the break and it's been a thing for as long as I can remember.

[@DannyB19801980]

I have ADHD and was undiagnosed until I was 18! The ONLY statement I personally disagree with is that ADHD sufferer's act on impulse and CHOOSE what to do! In my early years I just had to get a crazy idea in my head and I would do it without a moments hesitation OR considering the consequences! However I worked very hard to develop my own coping mechanisms as otherwise I was going to continue to be arrested and would have ended up in prison! I appreciate the help and insights into bipolar disorder and your videos have helped me a lot so thanks very much

[@deelightful9730]

Im 52 and did not realized i have ADHD till diagnoser at 40..I just thought I was extremely forgetful and disorgamized due to extreme business and stress. My daughter was diagnosed woth bipolar 2 at age 14. She is 30 now and struggle to maintain normal activity during manic episodes.

[@margrietbrandsma000]

Thank you. This is important. My brother first got diagnosed ADHD. After years and years of struggling me and two of my siblings got the diagnoses BiPolar and finally got the right help.

[@BriNJ1983]

I just posted in the main comment section. I wanted to ask you how your brother is now? What medications is he on? I may be in the same boat as him, I'm just so lost right now. Do I have ADHD, do I have Bipolar? Do I have anxiety disorder? Is this a "co-occurrence disorder"? Any guidance or info I'd really appreciate.

[@sicilyny5375]

The best explanation I have ever heard comparing ADHD and Bipolar. My son was diagnosed a severe behavior disorder in Kindergarten...2 yrs later he was diagnosed mostly deaf! Then came diagnose of ADHD.. I refused meds for him and we fought the school. Then at 16 i saw all the signs of Bipilar i ignored earlier... Hyped up energy..talking fast...i can do anything attitude..no sleep..then severe depression..sleeping alot...hiding in his room..this was up n down and he started drinking at 18..then pot smoking...he was super intelligent andchad few problems in school but he dropped out of college...his ups n downs got worse.. He went from workaholic to alcoholic and now at 35 alk i basically see is a wasted young man drinking sex and bars is his life....Ive talked to him so often about bipolar...I have it..his great grandfather and 2 great uncles had it..possibly my great aunt on moms side..rampant in this family. He wont get professionally diagnosed or seek help. He knows I am on meds that help and I gave him lots of tools to help...he just wont do it.. I'm so fearful he will have a bad end...he has many factors in his life besides deafness..rejection from bio dad..abusive step dad..me being "off the wall" most of his life..etc... Any suggestions. I would love for him to watch your videos they are sooooo helpful... Anyway thank you for you...you do help me realize bipolar is doable❤

[@kevinm8696]

Robert you are the best. When I watch you I feel it's Ok to have bipolar disorder. Your like-ability, and easy way of talking about our condition is comforting. I'm sorry that you suffer. So do I. A few years ago I stopped trying to explain to my friends what my experience was like. That did not work. Their suggestions completely missed the mark. But whenever I walk into a DBSA meeting (Depression Bipolar Support Alliance) meeting I can sense that everyone just understands without having to explain. I've found the right meds and the right treatment plan on my own and I am doing OK most of the time. But I'll have days when the train feels like it is going to jump the tracks. But even those days are not so bad. I've got a good life. So I am very glad you are brave and good at doing what you do here on KZbin. Thank you.

[@brenainnmacthomais]

Kevin, you hit the nail on the head. My family and friends don’t understand. I bought a bipolar workbook when I was manic and was going to go through it and do all this research so I could be Superman and “beat it.” I cycle through fairly quickly so that failed. The book is around the house somewhere or maybe in a storage building. I’m getting off track... my sister, who thinks she’s my mom, read ONE FREAKING SENTENCE OR PHRASE and all of a sudden she had a PHD in BP! She told me when I get “off track,” I need to stop myself. It’s not that easy! UGH! She did say that she understands why I have done the things I’ve done though. I wonder if she really understands? Probably not... not with her PHD, ya know?!

[@rwheels6471]

I was diagnosed with bipolar and unsuccessfully treated ... Finally at 31 I was diagnosed with addhd... Meds finally helped. I do have both though

[@rwheels6471]

One of the symptoms of bipolar is not thinking you have bipolar

[@TheKarret]

@@rwheels6471 Well, but at the same time, some folks might be misdiagnosed; so that's not the fairest of symptoms.

[@ahlamalsharif1279]

Does any one here like me struggling with "who am I" question? I don't my personality and is this from me or from my bipolar?? Is my ups and downs like a flu or are they a part of me??

[@ahlamalsharif1279]

Know*

[@hope8957]

I often feel the same exact way and I wish I could give you an answer

[@jasmijnraaij2987]

Thissssss

[@livingwithbipolardisorder-7339]

Im struggling with this exact question, from what I can acquire, it is apart of Bipolar Disorder.

[@ki15394D]

The solution for me was trying not to panic (to breath slowly and to be as still and confortable as I could be) and trying not to lose sight of who I REALLY was, despite of everything. Because when you hear you have this condition (or other, I can imagine) you tend to identify so much with the symptoms that you almost don't know anymore who you are! You put yourself in doubt! You put the symptoms occupying the place of who you are. And it doesn't feel good to do that and it is not good to put yourself in that position. Because one thing are the symptoms and a certain "illness", another thing is You. You are always you. But, with me, I had the same problem in the beginning, it felt scary, and I felt I was putting myself in great difficulties because there are no guidelines written anywhere (not counting with youtube videos, friends, family and doctors, which are or can be a help) to guide yourself through it. You feel as if your identity and personality is being removed, changed, even lost. But if you stop for a second and try to feel yourself, and who you are, you will find who you are and you will feel yourself. It may take some time and tranquility to find it, to feel it. For as difficult as sometimes it may seem, you are there, always. In my case, I tried to accept the symptoms I was experiencing and tried to understand them, why they were manifesting and appearing, and what were the causes of it. I searched for specialized information and books and read about it. And I found the answers. I started to pay more attention to certain things which have an important role and impact in my well being, such as sleep (I tried to have and maintain a good sleep routine and "hygiene"), food (eating healthy food and changing my diet for the better by discovering new and healthier ways of eating), meditation, sports (practicing some kind of sport or doing some physical exercise, activity), listening to music, dancing, art (painting, drawing), playing an instrument, going to the cinema, reading books, going for a walk... There are plenty of things that we can try and discover to see if it benefits us or if it does some good for us. The most important thing of all, I think, is to never lose sight of yourself and of who you are, taking into consideration also that we change many times and evolve.

[@TheBipolarOg]

Excellent video, as usual! I would strongly urge many people to watch as I feel the two are often misdiagnosed. I was diagnosed with manic depression or bipolar disorder when I was 16, & later (18) diagnosed with ADHD as well. (comorbid). At that age I was not on any medications for either illness but I can say that episodes of my bipolar were extremely heightened- and usually not in a good way. It took years of doctors and lots of honesty from me to get me right. Self-medicating via drugs or alcohol is so common, and so detrimental. Now, on a great course of diet, exercise, therapy and medication, I am (willing) and able to treat both - which keeps my spark but doesn't completely put out the flame. 😉 Loved this video! 💜 (Bipolar 1 & ADHD & PTSD)

[@alex9581]

please excuse this traumadumping in a video four years old, it just really hit home for me. so i was given what i keep referring to as a 'soft diagnosis' of bipolar about two weeks ago and i'm so frustrated about the whole thing because i first started showing symptoms and was clearly in a manic episode when i was about 21, but was told by a psychiatrist i have adhd. got a full diagnosis and changed meds. this recent 'soft diagnosis' (ie changing meds and seeing the effects of them quite early) has essentially confirmed i have both in retrospect, i absolutely did what you mentioned in the video in my initial assessment - even though i had all the hallmarks of a manic episode, i was telling the first psychiatrist everything he wanted to hear, dodging the topic and didn't even mention any of my negative symptoms because i was embarrassed and i really didn't want that diagnosis. thank you for this video. i've been trying to list off my clear symptoms of mania and differentiate them from my adhd feelings and showing these differences this clearly really help. i'm due to see this second psychiatrist again next month and hopefully my deeper understanding will get me the diagnosis i clearly need now four years later.

[@viennadesou6546]

Can you do one of these comparing bipolar and Autism. I feel like they have just as much overlap as bipolar and ADHD, and people on the spectrum are often first misdiagnosed as bipolar.

[@Chris-fj4ez]

That would be a great video. I've been diagnosed bipolar with ADHD but my son has autism which mostly effects his sensory processing. I also feel like there's a lot of overlap and wonder if it may be a better diagnosis. For now I'm trusting in my psychologist and being treated for bp and (innatentive) add

[@litchtheshinigami8936]

@@Chris-fj4ez there defenitely is.. i have both Autism and ADHD.. there are also a ton of overlaps between ADHD and Borderline disorder.. my mother was diagnosed with borderline.. however there are a lot of things she struggles with that also are very ADHD like bad concentration so for all wee know she could be misdiagnosed as well and actually has ADHD wich would make sense

[@Dreadkid08]

Feels like a triad. ADHD overlaps with bipolar and autism

[@policornia]

I am a psychologist with bipolar type 2... my boyfriend have ADHD and I think my father have Bipolar disorder and ADHD... BUT its still very hard to make the difference... this video was such a help for me! You should make one with the diferences between Bipolar disorder and Borderline Personality. Thanks!!

[@MrApplewine]

I think they all share a common pathology but are different stages of the same disease or disease expression. You can actually see this where a person starts out with ADHD, then it goes into bipolar and then into CFS and fibromyalgia.

[@richardmoore5347]

I have to live with both of these disorders (BP II, Combined Presentation ADHD). I am so thankful that I found a Psychiatrist, as well as an excellent physician that were finally able to help me. I wasn't diagnosed until I was 24, and my academic, social, and romantic life suffered greatly. I'm doing a lot better, (not perfect, and trying to balance things is hard), but I can say with honesty that it can, and does get better, so if you are struggling, don't give up hope! So remember, when you are feeling like you can't keep going on, if something doesn't work out, you still learned what doesn't work, and you can try something new next time.

[@animeashogoshi]

I also have Bipolar Disorder and ADHD. May I ask how you deal with it?

[@cd4536]

When I was a kid in the mid/late 90's-early2000's and struggling with undiagnosed bipolar 1 and aspergers they didn't diagnose bipolar in kids. My first psychotic episode was at 11 years old. I was diagnosed with all kinds of things but never ADHD. I did have a few clinicians say it was likely bipolar but they couldn't diagnose it. I was labeled odd, various anxiety disorders, depression, intermittent explosive disorder to name a few. I got my official diagnosis right before my 18th birthday. My ASD diagnosis just happened recently at 31 years old.

[@meganmckinney1105]

Thank you. I was misdiagnosed with Bipolar II, severe depression, ADHD, you name it. The past two years have been some of the hardest in my life, mostly because of these misdiagnoses. I've always known deep down that I've had bipolar 1 but would not admit it out loud. I am currently seeing a new doctor and have been put on bipolar medication, which has helped me tremendously. the hardest part in all of this throughout my entire life has been trying to get doctors to listen to me. I believe I have bipolar 1 and ADHD and I believe I've had both my entire life. Thank you for giving me the courage to finally say this to My doctor. I have a phone appointment this Tuesday and plan on telling her just that. I'm tired of being told by a "professional" that I have a black and white, cut and dry disease, when in fact I know there is something more to it. Just....thank you for being so open and honest. You have helped me over the past few months more than I can properly put into words. So of all this rambling....thank you.

[@Mia-ch2gw]

I was suggested to have ADD when younger, so no medication was "needed". Now I have bipolar, I can see how measleading it was for my 17 years old self to hear that

[@sarailopez7103]

Metooo

[@kittywampus2981]

I am now in my 60s and I have recently realized that I don't always recognize that someone close to me has both adhd and bipolar, even though I have received treatment off and on for 3 decades.However, when I observed the psychotic break, then suddenly, I could observe their layers of chaos. I could listen and understand. Thank you so much for your help with this community of highly intelligent and capable people who need kindness and care.

[@laurabrooks1686]

Rob thank you for cutting through all the fluff and junk. You make it so much easier to understand this disease. I have wrested with this question all my life. This is the best explanation I've gotten yet. Thank you again

[@SwimminWitDaFishies]

THANK YOU for making this video!! I will share it with my family members and hopefully they will find it as enlightening as I did!

[@chiaroscuroamore]

I’ve just found your channel and as someone with Biplolar Type 1 with Mixed States and Rapid Cycling as well as Generalised Anxiety Disorder life can be a literal roller coaster. I have wondered if I also have ADHD but have not worried about a formal diagnosis as I’m pretty stable med wise and don’t want to mess with it. It’s nice to know I’m not alone.

[@PolarWarriors]

Hey there ! Rob is available on patreon. You can message him, text or even have a call with him there. For a very limited time he is offering free support phone calls for all patrons right now in which he can lend an ear, give advice or answer questions. Take gentle care. Sometimes we all need someone to talk to: www.crisistextline.org/ teenlineonline.org/talk-now/ Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member (H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nds On Patreon, you can message Rob directly, get a phone/video call, watch videos that are more personal in nature, and access a great community. www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@loricavanaugh3699]

If I could give you a big hug through this internet I so would. You're unlocking tools and information I have searched for all my life, and everytime I try to blame something else, like the thyroid, for instance, I listen to you and face my facts once more. I so needed this today!

[@yesterdazechild00]

Thank you so much for this distinction. My bipolar symptoms began very young but I was diagnosed with ADD and my parents didn't believe in Psychiatry necessarily so I wasn't diagnosed as bipolar until I was 32 which made my life unbelievably difficult up until that time.

[@ruth6833]

You explain things so well...so helpful and informative learning about the condition from the 'inside' Thankyou!

[@IMissMrKitty]

I'm so happy you're addressing this issue. I feel like I have it, but I'm not sure yet. My doctor and I are working on things right now to figure it out.

[@tigerbytes2399]

Dude this is literally the video I’ve been looking for. I wasn’t aware that there was a relationship between ADHD and Bipolar but I’m aware of the relationship/sliding scale of (schizophrenia/bipolar) and autism and the relationship of dopamine. I’m no doctor but I would definitely I am ADHD and Bipolar Psychosis. I’ve been undiagnosed for Nearly 36 years and I’m about to pay for a private psychiatrist to get the help I need.

[@sharonzernia6100]

Thank you Robert for doing this segment of Bipolar and ADHD differences.

[@1steyevisione]

You gnow more than these doctors. Thanks for putting clarity out there. The mixed mania with bipolar 1 is no joke & is hardly ever spoken on. Thank you so much. You just shut down an episode from ensuing❤

[@mrem_47d]

Thanks for this, it's put into words what I've been unable to describe within me!

[@donnastitz1497]

this really makes A LOT of seance !!!!! thank U Rob !

[@mrz1703]

Thank you Rob. I've been having some really bad days lately. Those are some SHOCKING statistics about the suicide rate. I know I struggle with that myself. I thought about Robin Williams when you started talking about celebrities...so sad😔

[@christinalstoudtpersonal9534]

I wish people understood more about this. I’m on meds and in therapy, did 2 PHP/IOPs within a year... and they’ve helped, but I still struggle. I feel like people expect me to be okay now forever. And I sometimes forget and expect that too, and get frustrated when my I’m highly symptomatic. I blame myself and have to eventually remember it’s just an illness. I can’t control every single aspect of it. It’s scary really. And it’s great to see how it differs from ADHD because online I saw I had many symptoms, yet my symptoms line up more accurately and consistently with bipolar. Your channel really helped me help my doctors diagnose me and get me help.

[@nataliechivers9842]

Thankyou for all your tips! I recently found your site and find you easy to learn from,very informative. In a real bad cycle at the moment so trying to learn more. found this video informative as both my girls have ADD/ADHD so it was interesting hearing the cross overs.

[@stephenpowstinger733]

Interesting talk and deserves more views. This is about what doctors call differential diagnosis - defending your hypothesis or why something is one thing and not the other.

[@adironimbus9763]

It is amazing how you are so knowledgeable and yes u do sound like a medical professional even though you're not a doctor! You are so amazing!

[@CosmicFox808]

This is extremely helpful information, thank you! I didn't realize that the conditions could overlap.

[@asgothas]

A fantasic & insightful video. Thanks Rob!

[@coreenherron9125]

Thank you so much for this! I am a PMHNP student, and your video was more helpful than all of my text books! So grateful you are making these videos and making huge differences in so many lives!

[@lizhtx]

Thank you for covering this!!!

[@SuperYanivs]

THANK YOU SO MUCH .I WISH YOU ONLY THE BEST PEACE AND HEALTH.

[@nell3072]

Your videos are brilliant. So hard to put this stuff in to words, very helpful to have someone explain things so clearly, makes it easier to explain to others

[@PolarWarriors]

Wow, thank you!

[@TheFourOfNine44]

Thanks Again Robert, so glad i trust my psychologist, and seeing her on Thursday. Jacinta.

[@mishkathlay]

Thank you so much for this. Extremely helpful.

[@rtmut1]

Excellent material. Thank you so much! Very helpful.

[@lindaburris4890]

I'm TOTALLY impressed with your ability to deliver & express your knowledge and personal experiences. You're AWESOME!! I'm almost 50 yrs old & have researched & watched MANY channels, read books & seen soooo many doctors! I've gotten so much more out of you & your videos!! The only part of my bipolar (w/ dysphoric mania & moods can cycle daily & almost hourly), ADHD & generalized anxiety disorder diagnoses (1 Dr.said I have 7 of the 9 traits of Borderline Personality Disorder symptoms). What I don't understand is the racing thoughts and speech (that I personally call "diahrea of the mouth") where I find it nearly impossible to shut up. What a sight to see & worse to experience. To watch the faces of those "listening" to me is devastating! What is this part of? I've had many different explanations from doctors. What's your opinion?

[@terrystexastreasures6809]

You have cleared up some differences for me. Yes I may have ADHD, but I am definitely Bipolar II. I recognized myself when you mentioned that while manic a person may do something that they absolutely wouldn't do in a more passive state of mind. Me in a bit shell. Thanks again Rob.

[@lizhyink5636]

Yes. & Thank you! ( Years ago, I'd read an article about how ADD often gets misdiagnosed as Bipolar, and that was exactly what I wanted to believe around that time.) Clarifying the overlaps and differences of the two diagnosises, as well as when someone has both, can do a lot of good for people. -Much appreciated.

[@iveneverseenahealthyvegan.9885]

Children should be educated this information at school. It will have an understanding of peers with these conditions throughout life, in an informed educated manner. And will make the world a better place for everyone. Keep up your good work.X

[@EBlack-my8mu]

Rob Sir Thank you so much for All that u do .U are sharing your light and trails and its amazing.Love you man and I truly enjoyed this conversation .Thanks again & keeping Slaying😚😚😚👍

[@sheilaali]

This is so interesting, I found your honest and clear experience important.

[@PolarWarriors]

I'm so glad!

[@gregschurman6026]

My story too. ADD then Bi Polar nightmare.

[@bp6h]

Your videos are amazing!!! So helpful and you are very real with the information/advice you give. Thank you!!!

[@PolarWarriors]

Thank you so much for the kind words. I sincerely appreciate it! Stop by the channel anytime 😊😊☀️☀️

[@lupecastro1076]

You do do well in explaining these disorders thank you once again

[@hannaamundsen6109]

I begin to cry because this discribe me so well.. I felt you really understand me

[@rwheels6471]

Peer support would be how is phrase that. I love what u do for us man... You are doin good things my brother. Hold your head up high. You deserve mad recognition

[@karenduffellcanham5309]

You are such a brave man - understanding and dealing with oneself is one of the hardest things, actually I think its THE biggest challenge in the universe - because its key to dealing with the world. Thank you so much for the info - I am super ware of these things as my family has suffered from both ADHD + bI-polar - I wish you good mental and physical health in the future - what you are doing is invaluable work.

[@lesterlasa3367]

Thank god I have a great doctor he doesn’t just medicate he talks to

[@TheBipolarOg]

So important, and awesome for you!

[@rwheels6471]

The reason they don't all do that is insurance has to be billed two ways. If you get along with your med provider n they ain't a jerk they'll talk. But if they are officially qualified our stupid system makes it more expensive.

[@lesterlasa3367]

@@rwheels6471 So true mental health in America sucks period

[@ninijaiani5510]

Lester Lasa hello, my son has HADD I dont think medicate we’ll be halp? I dont trost tham .well be happy if you shear information vith me .thanks

[@shadrach6299]

Lester Lasa Most of them do.

[@NatureHeadSupreme]

Yes, the lines can in fact blurr easily, Rob. Correct diagnosis is paramount. Adhd isn't my comorbidity but I went through the whole primary care spewing MDD & throwing standalone anti's.. sending me all the way up the mountain where psych docs & stabilizers hang. When you deal with combo illness the dial is just all the way up, perhaps even broken. Thanks for your archive.

[@shane.holland]

Thanks for sharing. Depression/Anxiety and mental health in general have such a stigma in our society and the more people like yourself talk about it the more the stigma will reduce in our society. My channel is solely about mental health and reducing this stigma. So many people do not seek treatment because they are afraid what people will say and this is destroying people’s lives. This needs to stop. Keep up the great work.

[@lloydlupfer1742]

I was diagnosed ADHD in elementary school on through middle school. Late middle school / early high school I quit taking my meds and just lived life. Struggled all though my teens and twenties. Wasn't until I was 30 (now 36) that I was diagnosed bipolar 1. I didn't know that my obsessions and "hobbies" were manias 😂 I definitely knew the depression side. Over the past few years you (along with my docs) have helped me to understand myself and answer / explain questions I've had all my life and couldn't explain it. Thank you so, so, much man. You are definitely doing a good thing. Keep motivated! Thanks again.

[@zz-ic6vy]

Lloyd Lupfer what are your hobbies and obssessions?

[@lloydlupfer1742]

@@zz-ic6vy they come and go. Silversmithing, gold Prospecting, Flint knapping, lapidary work, mycology/mushroom hunting, vaporizer coil building, horticulture, my current interest is in the stock market. The list goes on. Funny thing is that once one has subsided I don't really go back to them. Nevertheless, my wife still keeps all the stuff I aquire so that when I do I don't have to buy more things 😂

[@lloydlupfer1742]

@@zz-ic6vy why do you ask? 😊

[@mauriciomontoya9677]

I have both and I must say you are right in everything you said. My life is a living hell, and I still haven’t been able to get the right meds or treatment to help me move on with my life.

[@Liferestart6969]

I was told by therapist that I had some of the Worst ADHD she had ever experienced and I had been diagnosed bipolar around 1980. It is now 2000 when I was given that information regarding ADHD, and when I did an extremely deep dive with my ADHD, I came to the conclusion that my upbringing is what brought it on because of my challenging experiences as a child. And here’s something that’s completely counterintuitive. I use Adderall to treat my bipolar. Here’s my example if you have a garden hose with very high pressure water shooting out in all directions, that’s something like a manic episode, but if I was to put on a nozzle that directed and control the flow that’s almost similar to adding Adderall to a manic episode. It brings my thought process down and makes it more organized. I can explain more than that.

[@ginaanderson5186]

This was such great information!! My 18 yo son is out of control.. diagnosis in 5th grade with ADHD.. now mood disorder.. smokes marijuana but won’t take other meds... tearing our family apart( mostly me) I’m so lost with where to go from here😢

[@sandhyakg3190]

You explains the things very well 👍🏼

[@legendofzeldafolyphe]

💜💜thank u for your helpful/life saving content

[@lindavigil4908]

TY. I appreciate what you’re doing. Stay well.

[@PolarWarriors]

Thanks, you too!

[@emilyjordan9462]

Thank you for everything you do. You have helped me.

[@PolarWarriors]

Hi Emily! I'm so glad you found Rob's channel! In case you are interested Rob offers one on one support on Patreon and he has a weekly support group for patrons only on discord. Would love to have you there! Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@veronicalidstromjoannides5786]

Great video! Very informativt Thank you!

[@DJ5780]

I was diagnosed with ADHD and dysthymia at 27. I am now noticing the depression comes in waves or cycles, with periods of normalcy or maybe a slight elation of mood and outlook in between. Not sure what to think now, but omg I so relate to the molasses description, that was the most prominent symptoms for me that caused me to seek help

[@riazali3221]

Thank you very much for providing us this useful information.

[@dianelap67]

Thank you! Very good explanation!

[@PolarWarriors]

Glad it was helpful!

[@DaBigin]

This is the first video I have seen that you have created. Thank you for the work that you are doing, I will be looking at your other videos and I have subscribed so I'll be updated on new videos. I suffer from BP1 with psychotic features, and I also have been diagnosed with ADHD in the past. Right now I'm in a depressive slump I think. I'm hoping things get better soon.

[@PolarWarriors]

I'm so glad you found us! Thank you for your support!

[@jubileephetogolekganyane67]

Big up to you man... much appreciated

[@SDNickyRocks]

Great video! Not that I would expect anything less. You have a better grasp than most doctor's. I just can't help but worry about you. I had been feeling so good, so I have been spending some time trying to be supportive to others struggling, I don't know if I am heading toward a crash or just wore myself out emotionally, but the triggers are tough. I don't know how you do it?

[@desertrose6100]

Great information and stellar channel!

[@PolarWarriors]

Welcome aboard!

[@jennifers.8255]

I have recently been diagnosed with Bipolar II, ADHD, and OCD. At 53 years old, It's a lot to process and take in. There are days when I can face it head on, and other days, I just hide out from the world and my motivation is drained. Thank you for putting some things into perspective, PW.

[@PolarWarriors]

Hey there! Rob is available on patreon. You can message him, text or even have a call with him there. For a very limited time he is offering free support phone calls for all patrons right now in which he can lend an ear, give advice or answer questions. Take gentle care. Sometimes we all need someone to talk to: www.crisistextline.org/ teenlineonline.org/talk-now/ Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member (H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nds On Patreon, you can message Rob directly, get a phone/video call, watch videos that are more personal in nature, and access a great community. www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@booperfect8894]

Take happy mushrooms a cap a day see how your perception changes

[@darisan8637]

Wait! You’re not a medical doctor? Well you speak with so much knowledge and understanding. You kept going on and on with si much information and I don’t think you had any cuts (editing must’ve been easy 😆) thank you so much for this information I appreciate it 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@marciasloan534]

You are very kind

[@clairebarlow5030]

Thank you for this video 🙏

[@thomasmacy5909]

Wow. Thanks for the biography of my life!

[@emmawheeler8559]

Great information thank you

[@kelseastovall5613]

This is an extremely informative video. I was recently diagnosed with adhd and manic depression. Doc put me on lamictal and adderal. It’s been only a week so I suppose it’s too soon to really know if the lamictal is working. So far with the Meds I’ve had ups and Downs. Ups: I’ve been able to think more clearly, and I’m not overwhelmed by the smallest task. I no longer have impulsive urges, I’m actually listening to people when they speak, I’m learning more quickly and doing everything more efficiently Downs: insomnia (probably from taking too high a dose in the evening), loss of appetite, I experienced depression twice so far, and not feeling sociable (only a couple times so far) Both of these illnesses run in my family and so I’m not sure what I have.

[@TheKimbaSimba]

La haha I 😮😮 was😮😢

[@TheKimbaSimba]

I I am a

[@RichRobinson]

I have both and I’m really struggling. Thank you for the content you put out. I’m sure it’s probably saved some lives.

[@PolarWarriors]

Thank you for your comment Rich and for subscribing! :) I'm sorry to hear that you've been struggling. Having multiple diagnoses can be a challenge. I have more than one myself, I can relate. I hope you have a good support system in place. If you'd like to help support Rob in what he does with Polar Warriors I'd encourage you to consider joining him on Patreon. He posts exclusive content there and is able to reply to direct messages through that platform. There is also a wonderful support community in the community section. I'll include the link so you can check it out! I hope you have a wonderful week ahead! :) -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member) www.Patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@elis9419]

Can I ask you what you personally experience when it comes to the symptoms of these diagnosis, can you distinguish something like "this is the adhd" and "this is the bipolar" clearly? I have bipolar 2 and suspect I have adhd because I have so many of the adhd symptoms but keep thinking what if its just the symptoms of bipolar. Rob focuses on the bipolar but I'm curious to what symptoms do people with both diagnosis have that people with only bipolar have. Would so much appreciate to hear some thought on this form someone who have been diagnosed with both.

[@brenainnmacthomais]

Thank you so much for these videos! I have been so deep in depression... so much going on! A few years ago, I would wrap a belt around my neck as tight as I could and then go to sleep hoping... praying I wouldn’t wake up! I have gotten back to this again. My niece’s bf called the suicide hotline on me today. I told him I’d never talk to him again. I’m cutting people out of my life. So much is going on and I can’t keep up. I’ve got some physical issues happening that have slowed me down. I would LOVE to be manic again! I need to feel happy again-and for my chest to stop hurting! I feel so disconnected from the world these days!

[@marthachamberlain3738]

This explains so much thank you very much

[@PolarWarriors]

You are most welcome! If you have any questions, there’s a link in the video description where I can be reached directly 😊☀️🤗 -Rob

[@1x56]

Such a well-explained video. I have depression and was recently diagnosed with ADHD. Comparing the symptoms of ADHD and bipolar, I don't seem to fit the bipolar 2 diagnosis. However, the only thing that makes me wonder if I have bipolar is how I react to antidepressants. It either doesn't make much of a difference or I get slightly more impulsive, lose inhibition, then get really depressed and suicidal :/ Same with adhd meds

[@user-so1wr2oh1t]

My bf has both and he's really into me right now. I'm waiting for something to happen at some point and feel better prepared by watching your videos. I really care about him. Thank you for taking the time to explain all of this.

[@booperfect8894]

Did everything work out?

[@easternsunguitarist5791]

Thanks for this.

[@kellymcdaniel6272]

I was diagnosed as bipolar I at 17 but when I was diagnosed and treated for adhd at 38 I received so much clarity in my life💜

[@TinyDiodes]

Amazing. Thank you.

[@240fxst]

God bless you sir . Great videos !

[@bwendy2]

I'm really I found your channel. Hoping my 19 yr old with sud and had a psychotic episode a few weeks ago will watch someday. He doesn't yet see the dire circumstances before him.

[@user-cv3nh6qb5r]

things we kinda forget with time...thank you so much...Im diagnose with both...🙃

[@PolarWarriors]

You got this! Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@milk4625]

Your an angle this made me feel so greatful.