What Is Bipolar Disorder?

When properly treated, people with bipolar disorder live wonderful and fulfilling lives. So often it seems that people only want to talk about those who aren’t managing their symptoms or are publicly struggling and mention them as if they represent everyone with bipolar disorder, but they don’t. And I also want to mention that anyone with a mental illness is still personally responsible for themselves and what they do, they may just need some professional support to get them into a place where they can make positive choices, and that’s okay. Showing compassion and understanding as someone works to manage their symptoms and be better is the most helpful thing we can do.
I'm Kati Morton, a licensed therapist making Mental Health videos!
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[@emilyjane6252]

Thank you, for doing an updated version of Bipolar disorders I great appreciate Kati. I have Bipolar 1 and I'm glad you are bring clearly for people to better understand this disorder.

[@emilyjane6252]

When the boarders open up Kati are you coming to Canada, if you do any meet and greets there? I would love to meet you one day that is on my bucket list.

[@Katimorton]

Of course! I am so glad you found this helpful :) And I will definitely be coming back to Canada when we can! usually we go to Montreal to see Sean's family, so if I do a meet up it would be there :) xoxo

[@emilyjane6252]

@@Katimorton I live in Ontario but it would be great to go there and take advance of the opportunity to go to Montreal again since I haven't been there since I was 11. Thank you, for responding have a great week Kati.

[@justicebfrazier]

I have bipolar 1 too.

[@lizandanorexia8827]

@@emilyjane6252 Im in Ontario hun

[@21minute]

Hypomania is often undetected 'cause it feels great.

[@domingopgarcia8391]

Yeah, more often than not when I have an episode, its the people around me who make me notice. Then I think about it for a minute and go "yeah, that right" and start my techniques. Last year I had a really insidious one that lasted about 2 weeks, that was just enough to make me bolder but not enough to be noticed. I did so many stupid stuff during that 2 weeks time. It feels horrible afterwards. But during, its like every thought going a 100 an hour is a good idea and you should do that, you go get it. My brain becomes my most passionate and toxic cheerleader ever. It feels good. Its the aftermath that sucks.

[@Katimorton]

Yes agreed!! That's why people usually come in with depressed first. xoxo

[@connielillis6508]

Kati do you have a video that talks about how to distinguish bipolar 2 and depression? I'm undergoing treatment for depression and anxiety (and eating disorder(s) but feel I relate a lot to experiencing hypomania. I never felt like it was depression/anxiety in the first place especially as I have highs - which can be as destructive as my lows. Thank you for this!

[@stoffls]

so true. I can clearly point to my depressive episodes, but the hypomania is "feeling good" and in this sense overlooked. I've been diagnosed with bipolar II, which seems a good fit, though I think my medication is antidepressants. They make me stable, which is good.

[@suzannep]

@@connielillis6508 from what I've learned in my own case, and from friends, often one of the clearest signs of hypomania is change in sleep and energy. Like you have days on end where you don't need any sleep, or very little sleep, and yet you are able to function during the day, and may have loads of energy. You might find yourself starting lots of projects sudenly. Or you start a new hobby and spend days hyperfocused on every detail of the hobby. It may even start to cause you to ignore things that are actually important because you become so preoccupied with the activity. Racing thoughts are common too and some describe it as having hundreds of thoughts running through your head, but others feel almost like life is going in slow motion at the same time as having racing thoughts. Hypersexuality is a common problem but not all act out on it, it may only be in the form of thoughts of sex becoming unusually increased. I often find myself forgetting to eat or even forgetting to drink while hypomanic, it's not like with depression where people get loss of appetite, it's like your body just doesn't give you the cues to eat or drink because it's too busy in overactive behavior. Also risk taking that is outside of your normal behavior, or feeling like you are amazing and can do just about anything. And unless you get mixed episodes, you will probably absolutely love the hypomania, it feels like a drug almost to a lot of people. Mixed episodes are like hell because you have the hypomania and depression at the same time rapidly switching between them, and feeling totally paranoid and out of control. Not everyone has all these syptoms and there are tons more symptoms that people get, but most importantly you need to talk with healthcare providers to let them know how things are in your case, then they can help figure out what you have.

[@ilikemakeup134]

I'm Bipolar. One thing that I absolutely HATE is when tv shows and movies use bipolar as an excuse for someone to be a crappy friend or a crappy parent. There is a HUGE difference between depression/hypomania/mania and being a shitty person. For example, the mother in spinning out and Claire's Mom in the good doctor.

[@pascalecat]

Somewhat relevant, but I hate when I watch a true crime video/listen to a podcast and hear, “He murdered his whole family” or “cannibalized a stranger” followed with “and was later diagnosed with bipolar disorder.” Um, excuse me? I’m sure there’s more than bipolar going on there.

[@ilikemakeup134]

Felina Loya That’s also the worst!!! Using bipolar disorder as the “reason” behind violent crimes is just sooooo wrong ):

[@daisychain473]

Can mental illness never be the reason? My brother was often verbally abusive towards me, and other people noticed. Then one day, we were in the kitchen, and he was being verbally abusive. He was winding me up'. I was crying, and begging him to stop. He would not, so I picked up the knife, from the side, and I continued to beg him to stop. I stood there, shaking, with the knife in my hands. I did not put it near his body, or stab him. He would not stop, but I put the knife down anyway. I then, fell on the floor, crying. I have other reason's to believe, I was mentally ill. I know what I did was wrong. I know it is still my fault, but I needed help. I did not want to stab him, but I could not emotionally handle what he was saying. I did not feel completely in control.

[@daisychain473]

I know, I am a bad person. I do feel ashamed of myself

[@razorsharplifestyle101hard9]

@@pascalecat Exactly,that psychopathy or psychopathic or anti personality disorder.

[@Livvy10981]

Knowing the difference between the two types is SOO important too.

[@Katimorton]

YES!!!! xoxo

[@ralfwashington1502]

Type 1 usually more damaging and may need to be in a hospital type 2 usually dont need hospital

[@ralfwashington1502]

@lemon water sorry to hear that but if you look I said usually, I didn't say never. Hope you are better now

[@watchthisheadspace]

@@Katimorton What about cyclothymia? Also important to know. And rapid cycling

[@leigh4810]

I thought there was 4 types?

[@phoeni3902]

The real definition of crazy is: A label we put on those who we refuse to understand it's sounds kinda corny, but it's honestly so true bipolar patients, get called crazy victims of abuse, get called crazy people who lie about their ex, say their ex was crazy depressed people, get called crazy by abusive people 'crazy' is one of an ignorant persons's tools to silence and belittle others they refuse to empathise with I really appreciate Katie making to sure to let people know that bipolar doesn't mean you're crazy, it means you just need help

[@Katimorton]

I love this!! Thank you so much for sharing :) xoxo

[@phoeni3902]

@@Katimorton you're welcome, and I love your shirt!

[@Mtz2604]

Ahhh talking for us with BPD, the stigma is such a crap that even psychiatrist or psychologist want to work with you sometimes... Is like "you're a hazardous material"

[@shreyasibasu622]

Wow i loved this comment so much !

[@alexandrugheorghe5610]

My thoughts exactly

[@galatea742]

I love how you say us instead of they. It really makes it feels like a comfortable conversation instead of a clinical address

[@notinorder9630]

Didn't notice why she was doing that at first, and my mind said "she's depressed, has ADHD, and has bipolar disorder? Yikes" 😅

[@elenakalliste]

I love how you always use “we” instead of “you” to sounds like you’re in it with your patients instead of detached from the struggles of others

[@leonorabrandscheit]

I'm wondering if she struggled with it as well at some point.

[@Katimorton]

Just found out about the typo in the video intro. Sorry about that! 🤦🏼‍♀️ Mistakes happen.

[@natalieh1950]

You mean....you're human? I thought therapists were a special species. Guess i was wrong (heavy sarcasm plz don't send hate)

[@raywood8187]

That's okay, it isn't an OCD video lol.

[@natalieh1950]

@Amber p I'm sensitive, but come off as abrasive. Please don't yell at meeeeeeeer

[@RabbitHole2006]

@@natalieh1950 HACK AI BPD

[@natalieh1950]

@Amber p I know

[@ellahardy822]

For the longest time I’ve just thought my hypomania was the normal parts in between depression :( literally haven’t known what normal feels like so its hard to differentiate

[@braydenwallis9281]

I feel you on not knowing what normal is anymore :/

[@izabellabastos7007]

this made me cry because it’s actually what i said to my therapist the other day. i don’t know who i am vs what’s just a symptom of my disorder

[@DK-sg3oe]

Avoid oil salt sugar poisoning ❤

[@SunkaPuppy23]

I had to quit a job I enjoyed. I was being bullied and being diagnosed as bipolar. It was so hurtful that I knew I was not. I found a professional psychiatrist who tested me immediately and the diagnosis was PTSD and not bipolar at all. 😢 I quit the job and continued a lot of work with my psychiatrist. It was a relief to improve my mental health and identify with my personality without fear of judgement from others. I can do things that keep me productive and take pride in my accomplishments. I ask that people stop trying to diagnose without a degree or experience in the mental health field. If a person is looking for resources recommend nearby practices and do not insert your diagnosis when not asked. Please help end the stigma through compassion and kindness. We are all going through something that no one else sees. Take care and reach out. ❤😃🌹

[@Katimorton]

I am so sorry you had to quit your job, but I am glad that you found a wonderful psychiatrist to work with :) xoxox

[@sarahglass6841]

Thank you for sharing your story. You are a brave person, I am glad you found a psychiatrist that was wiling to listen and explore other options.

[@ralfwashington1502]

Yeah heck even if asked by the random Joe never NEVER tell them your bipolar. Work friends can get in arguments and next thing you know your buddy you told is telling everyone at work. Even my boss doesn't know I would only tell a medical professional in a medical setting. Dont share that stuff since they don't understand. Just JMHO

[@FishFemme]

Been there, sister. Mean people suck so hard.

[@autumncortez6254]

I was diagnosed with bipolar type 2 about 4 years ago. I had to stay in a psychiatric unit for a little while for my psychiatrist to understand and observe my depression. I’m so grateful that someone listened to me and was able to accurately see my symptoms and patterns.

[@Katimorton]

Thank you for sharing!!! I am so glad you had such a great psychiatrist who observed you and made sure they were giving you a proper diagnosis :) xoxox

[@momoso143]

I wish someone cared for me or even took the time to see me in all of my 32 years

[@kaycormier9660]

I believe I have this but I’m scared of a diagnosis Bc I don’t want to be hospitalized I have kids.

[@DK-sg3oe]

Hi autumn avoid oil salt sugar ❤absolutely

[@valefuentesf]

This “creative myth” of the artist who feels trapped by is so hurtful! I’ve struggled with depression for years and felt a little unsure when my psychiatrist prescribed me antidepressants, because I’m an art student. Turns out the meds were the best thing that happened to my art: my thoughts cleared out and I started feeling the strength to do the things I wanted.

[@_just_TK]

So glad you’re in a better place! ❤️

[@valefuentesf]

TK thank you!

[@thehappyelephant8868]

Probably depends on the person. I think people should try the meds first and then determine whether it inhibits their creativity. I also know some people don't take them regularly and only when they need too based on what's going on in their life. But I am glad that they work for you!

[@memejuliyamemepuchkova4882]

The thing is that mood stabilizers (meds given to people who are bipolar) can cause apathy and it dulls the person’s emotions. And not just mania, but ANY emotion is watered down to the point where the person barely feels anything at all. Bipolar meds are kinda not good :/

[@Nancy-ow9wy]

So glad you're in a better place 😊

[@amyleigh8394]

After 7 years of being gaslighted by my husband's family, who decided it was reasonable to blame me for his depression, my husband was diagnosed with Bipolar 1 today. I'm so grateful for this video. 🙏

[@Peanuts76]

probably im like your husband, but gaslighting are my peers behaviour, it destroy our reality and believe honeslty

[@DK-sg3oe]

Amy avoid oil salt sugar for ur husband he can't tolerate it genetically ❤

[@allisonhermann8794]

I was just diagnosed with bipolar 2 and put on a mood stabilizer. I’m just starting to feel... I don’t know, human? I just thought I wasn’t handling life as well as everyone else.

[@_just_TK]

Glad you’re doing better! ❤️

[@chez6623]

Hi I was just wondering how you are doing now 11 months on after starting your mood stabilizers, I am really struggling with mine

[@mindylouise665]

Thank you. My husband just checked himself into treatment due to mania with psychosis due to his Bipolar Disorder. It’s sucks and watching a loved one fight this disorder is heartbreaking.

[@alluneedislessthan3]

Bipolar II person here. It took me years to find the right medication (took a few years to realize it was bipolar II and not major depression, then a few months to find a medicine that brought down my hypomanic episodes and an antidepressant to keep me out of depression). I just want anyone who has been diagnosed recently to know that stability is possible. It’s been over a year and I’ve yet to experience any hypomania or depression for more than a few hours/a day. I spent years thinking that I would be depressed and/or feeling out of my mind for the rest of my life and there was no way out, but that turned out to be totally untrue. Help and stability are out there!! Resources are out there! Meds can help A LOT once you find the right ones. Don’t stop going to your psychologist/psychiatrist even if you think you’re good.

[@_just_TK]

Anna S so glad you’re in a better place! ❤️

[@briannashanelle4858]

I want to second this! I also have bipolar 2 & medication has helped me feel the best I ever have! I thought I would feel suicidal for the rest of my life.

[@autumncortez6254]

What medicine works for you?

[@infA111ous]

Yes what medicine worked for you?

[@briannashanelle4858]

@@autumncortez6254 Everyone is different & your psychiatrist is the best person to consult. Personally I take 100mg Lamotrigine & 5mg Lexapro

[@_SarahElizabeth]

Thank you so much for making this Kati! My dad was bipolar and growing up, it was a "family secret" -- incredibly stigmatized. I wish I could talk with him about it now (he passed away in 2010) and I just remember in the winter -- in the Midwest -- he would stay in our parents bedroom for months and I didn't really see him much. Then in the summertime, he was "high" and things got kind of scary. When he tried medication, he wouldn't stick with it for long. Now as an adult and learning more about it, I just wish he was here and I could talk to him and support him.

[@beauty_in_chaos]

I understand how you are feeling. Maybe not 100% because experiences are subjective but I know the feeling. More power to you. Please take care.

[@ppl2luv]

i love how you always say “we”. it’s a small thing but it’s so comforting. you said it a lot in your BPD episode but it’s so good. i love your channel ❤️ i’m going to tell my therapist about your channel

[@Hesohi]

Your use of ‘we’ and ‘us’ is refreshing, encouraging and comforting.

[@marisaswanson2061]

i’m going to share this with my therapist bc i was diagnosed w bipolar 1 and she said it’s not her speciality. thank you so so much!!!

[@Katimorton]

Awe yay! of course! So happy to help :) xoxo

[@ralfwashington1502]

Wow that's actually awesome. She tells the truth knowing you will probably go to someone else! A therapist more worried about getting people help than keeping a client you probably can't.👍

[@thelittlestpika]

I'm here because my fiance has bipolar 2 and I want to learn more so I can help him.

[@Katimorton]

I hope this was helpful!! I also have more videos about bipolar disorder if you need more info :) xoxo

[@jules5215]

Can you talk about why ADHD and bipolar get misdiagnosed for each other

[@thehappyelephant8868]

I am not a psychologist but my understanding is because one symptom of ADHD can be emotional hyperactivity (particularly in girls which is why they have a hard time getting an accurate diagnosis if they have ADHD) which can cause mood swings making it look sort of like bipolar. Also bipolar can make someone really hyper at times which could look like ADHD. This is why it is really important to have a really good psychologist and probably see them over a period of several weeks or months to get an accurate diagnosis.

[@CP-ll6qg]

I'm not am expert, but from personal experience, it's because that over-talkative, distractable, fidgety energy that can come with a hypo/manic episode can also be associated with ADHD.

[@jules5215]

This is true, but I'd like to a lot of other stuff like people with adhd, experiencing depression etc. Basically I got diagnosed bipolar but many are saying it may be a misdiagnosis and now me and my family are wondering could it be adhd, the drs never saw me hypomanic but we discussed behaviour at length including how my behaviour changing around the age of changing from primary to secondary school and roughly around puberty but especially around 12 I became very hyperactive so it's interesting.

[@jules5215]

@Common Sense Isn't Common its more wellknown and already being discussed thats why I'm asking for commentary on this as there is less info

[@alickandreades6314]

Adhd is one of the symptoms of bi polar.

[@crazylanchen]

Kati is exactly talking about my story. I was hospitalized 8 weeks ago with depression. I've taken antidepressants and had 2 hypomania episodes. And now the doctors and me know that I am bipolar 2. If i haven't taken those pills I wouldn't know that i am bipolar because i always thought this episodes are normal and this is my charakter. Thanks for this video! :)

[@lisasnoozy3749]

Thanks for the video Kati! I’m bipolar 1 and just came down from a manic spree, I was up for nearly 5 days and now I’ve sunk back into depression. I always feel so happy and euphoric when manic, then when I’m down I realize I was manic and feel like it was a fake happ.

[@Mrshazey28]

This video makes me realize I need to see a therapist... thank you and I really mean that.

[@ainzleyb-w1279]

With someone who has Bipolar 2, I LOVE this video!!! I sent this to my family so that they can have a better idea on what’s going on in my world. Thank you ❤️

[@Katimorton]

Awe I am so glad I could help!!!! xoxoxo

[@MrsWetdirt]

You sound like an amazing therapist. I love your videos and I love how empathetic and compassionate you are while describing some of these features.

[@Creative_contour]

Crying typing this.... I desperately needed to hear this video. When I turned 25 I felt something change in my brain and I didn’t know what it was but since then (I’m 29) I have gone down hill rapidly..I’ve gained 100 pounds and become a shut in without any explanation. I’ve toyed with the idea thst I may be bi polar but I have always brought that idea to my mom first and she has said no your not because if you are that means I am. I don’t think that’s true anymore. I think I’m bi polar. I’ve been embarrassed at the idea of being bi polar. I want an explenation for my behavior and bi polar is my explanation. This is the start of me breaking down the stigma and learning about bi polar. I have therapy wed and I’m going to talk slot more about it. Thank you for this video Kati

[@_just_TK]

❤️

[@MissVioletSage]

Wow, this is helpful. I have bipolar 2. Was treated with just depression since a child until 8 years ago. It is a kind of emptiness I would not wish on anyone. Also I completely relate to the embarrassment (true shame) after a crazy episode. Keeps me up and racing & re-living it. Also. Since quitting social media. I have not had access to post and post my crazy thoughts that just embarrass myself!

[@blingbling574]

I watched my sister’s quality of life slowly deteriorate over the years. People and and businesses post stuff on social media that are untrue and mean. I wouldn’t touch social media with a ten foot poll. I dated a woman for 18 months with bi-polar, it was rough. Her shrink kept her on a pile of meds.

[@MissVioletSage]

Bling Bling This sounds a lot like my depressive episodes. So sad she suffered. And unfortunate you endured the moods and episodes. Partners deserve much respect for tolerance. Social media truly has ruined this world. And almost made me commit suicide from someone tagging me a awful humiliating post. complete humiliation and despair. Leaving that toxicity has been a relief. Its great you are learning about living with this. Shows true compassion. 🙏

[@k420princessmisssmokealot2]

Omg sound like me

[@dalepark7363]

Hi Kati, videos like this and sure;y a lot more are the reason I joined your site and have you KZbin videos in my favorites. I was diagnosed with BP 2 in 1974, and I added some diagnosis along the way and gratefully was able to work through them. I love your site and try to pull up videos you have on various topics I respond to on posts, I'm sure this one will be something I use as well. I won't get into my life story from 1974 till now, but I've been stable for 11 years now. I take my medication regularly, and live a full and productive life. There is no doubt it took a lot of therapy and working very hard on me, to get where I am today and it would have never happen without the help and support of people just like you from my past. Thank you so much for this video, you always explain things super great, your calm attitude and reassuring voice is just a delight to listen to. I'm grateful for you Kati, you help so many and you've helped me learn and understand things as well through your videos. Thank you for all you do, have done, and will do. Your totally awesome.

[@erictrujillo2052]

I just want to say I found your channel a couple weeks ago when I was diagnosed with bipolar 2 disorder and you have been a tremendous help, especially in knowing I'm not alone. You pretty much described my journey to diagnosis to a T, and although I am bipolar, I still want to be productive, be held accountable, and learn from my actions. Thank you for providing this public service, truly.

[@JKWise-mn7ij]

Bipolar Disorder has brought me to the psychiatric unit of a hospital and it has brought me to some of the darkest places mentally of my life. Thank you for making a video to share with the public all this information on Bipolar Disorder and the struggles and depression and mania. You broke it down very well. Hopefully we will see an end to so much stigma soon. Bipolar Disorder is something I'm actually kinda grateful for to be honest. I feel like, when properly "kept under control," it can be seen as a strength in certain ways. It gives me a strong sense of inner power.

[@toxiwrites]

I was diagnosed with Bipolar II when I was in high school. At the time, I felt like that was incorrect. Now I know for a fact I’m bipolar and have bipolar II. I have antidepressants, and a mood stabilizer to help keep me balanced. Thank you for making this video, I appreciate you educating people about Bipolar. I hope this helps people stop stigmatizing this disorder.

[@susanyeadon6657]

I eventually found the right combination and it works great. Abilify saved my life

[@Katimorton]

I am so glad :) Yay!! xoxo

[@cassiepacheco4416]

I used to take abilify and lamaictal! but now i just take lamictal now and ive been doing well for so long now!

[@tal2290]

Thanks so much for the video. My mother is bipolar. One of the things that interests me is when she’s in both stages, is that in the first stage she does not remember the things she did or said that can be very aggressive. And when he is in state two, she sinks into a kind of helplessness and she remembers everything she goes through. even when she is in a balanced state. In her case, the first stage lasts for at least a month and the second condition can last for three months. My mother is a big role model to me. She have such an amazing talent and she is the best life guided thatcher for me that I could ever asked for.

[@larag1764]

Love your videos Kati ! You explain complicated and sensitive topics with simple language while showing kindness and compassion. Thanks from Australia 🤗

[@kourtneeoswalt1210]

Bipolar type 1. Currently in a very very manic state and I love it. I feel on top of the world and everything is going so great in my life right now.

[@smiley9872]

I hope you are okay!

[@chanelchanel25]

ME TOO!

[@skylargibson2963]

You saved my life by some of your videos. I appreciate you so much!

[@_just_TK]

Skylar Gibson ❤️

[@Katimorton]

Awe I am so glad I could help!!! xoxox

[@cristinagonzalez6591]

I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder 1 when I was 23. I took lithium and was on therapy for three years and got remission. After that I followed with lithium and never had another crisis since I was 43. Now I don't take any lithium and am pretty OK (61). The worst thing it happened is that there is plenty of stigma about mental illness, so it was very difficult to talk about that issue with other people, even friends.Great video.

[@MoriahDreams123]

Thank you very much for talking about this now. With everything going on in the media, people are saying a lot of things, and while I knew there was stigma, I never knew people could be so bold in their ignorance. It kinda hurts. I wish people could remember that we are more than our diagnosis. Yes, people with the same diagnosis will have things in common, but we're all different and the illness still manifests in different ways. Also, someone who is medication compliant, and hitting all their doctors visits, and who have a strong support system are going to have a very different experience from someone who is not in treatment and who doesn't acknowledge that there is a problem. One thing that has really helped me during this time is this online support group I found for people with Bipolar Disorder on a website called Support Groups Central. My financial circumstances prevent me from being in therapy at the moment, so having something like this where I can talk to others who understand has been amazing. Especially with the quarantine. I just thought I'd share that. Thanks again!

[@lorena33614]

I love that she brought up the topic of antidepressants causing hypomania in people with BP2. I sought help for my depression but after being prescribed 5mg of Prozac I was hypomanic for 2 weeks. My car broke down, I got fired, and I had a huge fight with my mom but when I was in that mindset I could brush all of that off and have the most cheerful attitude about life.

[@bettykilleen338]

Hi Lorena, I don't know if you'll see this comment but i am going through this now. I'm on antidepressants and have been feel hypo manic for the past week. I've never felt like this before. Did you get over the hypomania once you came off the antidepressants?

[@fisherbredrup]

I used this video for my psyc 201 paper and boy was it helpful for my paper's sake but also for knowledge on this topic. You really have a gift of explaining things clearly.

[@alisonmercieca1465]

Best succinct and clear description of bipolar II I have seen. Thank you so much 🖤 Also thank you for highlighting that people with bipolar mostly aren’t that person people imagine, that we’re not scary. And I fully endorse the squirrel comment. I actually found it funny. We need humour in our lives!

[@_just_TK]

❤️🐿

[@anongirl4180]

Thank you there’s not enough education out there about bipolar disorder. As someone with bipolar disorder I appreciate this video ❤️ Can you please make another video on how to deal with the guilt after a long lasting manic episode? I struggle with this often and have so many flashbacks that make me feel horrible.

[@joelashtonfogle]

I really appreciate your work. My bipolar manifests by irritability

[@cassierobertson6157]

Hey Kati! Thanks for making a video on bipolar disorders. I especially appreciate that you talked about the medication element and how people with a bipolar disorder can feel more in control of their medication use. Thanks!

[@alannajones9382]

thank u so much for this. i have bipolar II and while i haven’t been able to get back onto my mood stabilizers, i’ve also realized that a proper sleep schedule as well as meditation and avoiding stimulating situations/things can help in the mean time! 💘

[@lornatw]

My biggest struggle is explaining to people online that BPD is not 'basically the same' as Bipolar. I hear it all the time.I have such a passion for explaining disorders to people and how there are a variety of traits an classifications. *Thank you* for uploading an update, especially since there are so many misconceptions to this day. I feel like generally if (for example) a celebrity comes out with a disorder label, young people especially almost romanticise it and assume its just about two moods and productive success. When the reality is, it's the complex traits that come in each of these moods that makes it a disorder. Such as irritation, psychosis, intrusive thoughts, delusional thinking, feeling out of control and out of character, false sense of doing well etc. Bipolar can literally destroy a persons life plans, students for example can take years to finish their course or drop out completely despite having the academic capability to succeed.

[@rayshanabrown3995]

Thank you for posting this because I have bipolar 1 disorder and I live a great life as long as I work with my psychiatrist.

[@Cokie1926]

I will always be thankful and love your videos. Your vids helped to save me. You were the one many years ago who actually made me understand Bipolar 2. No one really explained it to me. Your video with the whiteboard changed my life. I "saw" bp2 finally. it made me understand. Thank you.

[@jlkitz1775]

YOU are such a blessing Katy ❤️. Peace & blessings 100 fold to you and your loved ones ✌🏾

[@cassiepacheco4416]

Hi Kati! Thank you so much for posting a new video on Bipolar disorders. I was diagnosed with bp2 about a year ago when I was 14 yrs old. Watching your videos have really helped me learn more about my diagnosis :)

[@Katimorton]

Awe I am so glad my videos on this topic have been helpful!!! xoxo

[@ericacamp7353]

Can you do a topic about bipolar and sensory overload? It’s a real struggle for myself

[@anongirl4180]

Wait I’m interested. What is this? I’ve had like dissociation is it similar??

[@ericacamp7353]

@pink fawn yeah dissociation but more than that. Certain textures when I’m manic set me off, certain noises, but it’s all based on my mood.

[@ericacamp7353]

Pink Fawn yeah it is similar. But specifically certain textures or noises set me off and it’s related to my mood. My doctor is aware and merely said it’s part of the bipolar.

[@suzannep]

@@anongirl4180 i get a lot of sensory overload to sounds and too much activity around me. I think its sometimes associated with dissociative episodes, but most often it's not in my case. When I'm hypomanic i just feel like I want to scream being around some sounds or having to sit in a meeting, it's like all my senses are on overdrive and I want to just spaz out. Textures also bother me and things like the tags or seams in my clothes become torture to feel. When depressed I feel emotionally overwhelmed by conversation even just hearing others in conversation, it's too much to process. I will just have to close myself into my room and block of all external stimulation because it makes me feel panicked.

[@ralfwashington1502]

@@ericacamp7353 never heard of this interesting! And this is for strictly bipolar not someone who also has autism....right? Sounds like what autism people can have.

[@chroniceverything]

Thanks for this update, it helps me understand and help my loved one w Bipolar 1. The more info and research the better in my opinion. Just like I appreciate my loved ones who work to understand my major depressive & treatment resistant depression. Thanks Kati!

[@Jc22ny]

Thanks for another great video!!! I really feel empowered when you share with us the mental health knowledge. You're simply Awesome Kati xoxo

[@carlaellis4578]

Never clicked on any vid as fast. So excited to see some new stuff from Kati!

[@Katimorton]

Awe yay! I hope you liked it :) xoxo

[@arimckellin1]

As a person w Bipolar II, thank you for talking about this and clearing things up!

[@Katimorton]

Awe of course!!! xoxo Always happy to help :) xoxo

[@yehyeh5066]

I'm bipolar 2... For 20 years I was diagnosed with clinical depression. No antidepressant medication worked.. I am on lithium now & so much more stable. Thank you for bringing awareness to this mental illness! 😊

[@IdkIdk-gw3qo]

are you married?? How often do you have episodes now since you are now medicated?? Only asking because my sister just got diagnosed with it she is 18 and wondering if she can have a normal life

[@13has]

BP2 here, and I'm finally giving in and getting medicated. I fought it since they tried giving me Lexapro and it didn't work so well, but I've dealt with it over the years and I'm just tired of the constant change. I want stability and happiness.

[@mr.sushi2221]

Thanks for helping me seek help Katie. I have been exporting hypomanic episodes for the last couple of years and thought I was bipolar but every time I mentioned it to my therapist they said because I didn’t have delusions I wasn’t bipolar I was just depressed. Good to know about bipolar 2. I want to hug you right now. I have wasted over $50000 in the last 2 years while in a hypomanic state.

[@jadeqg98]

I love how you say those who HAVE bipolar, not those who ARE bipolar. It’s so annoying when ppl say that someone is bipolar. It’s not who I am, just a small part of me

[@FleshWolf]

Man I'm bipolar with ADHD and wow do the symptoms just overlap

[@LittleLizardAudio]

im the same way, i also am diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and ocd. my disorders and genetic due to mutations, but they overlap so much that it took years for diagnoses.

[@brioche8123]

I hate when I see people use bipolar and borderline as insults. Or because they had a bad experience with a person or an ex, they label that person as having BPD. It’s so annoying. I’ve seen that increasing in the last few years. I don’t have these diagnoses myself but I don’t like how stigmatizing it has become

[@brioche8123]

Amber p from what I’ve seen others go through, it does seem really difficult and I try to have empathy and understand that they are doing the best they can. I hope you’re managing it the best you can and have a strong support system. It’s sad that people want to make it seem like being manipulative or evil=BPD. Even if they do have BPD, each person is still responsible for their actions. They cant hide behind their diagnosis. I struggle with anxiety and I’ve seen people use anxiety as an excuse to act out.

[@brioche8123]

Amber p I did hear that part. I’m so glad she said that because a lot of people use it as an excuse. Smh. It’s just further stigmatizing those with mental illness

[@brioche8123]

Amber p ohh okay. She does say something similar though toward the beginning of the video.

[@sarbear5129]

Thank you so much for clarifying Kati!!! As someone with Bipolar 2 the stigma is real! I really appreciate you breaking it down and the healthy way to manage yourself through difficult times. Mood tracker apps. Work well for me and I have my support system that can identify if I am in a mood episode because I don’t always know. Thank you!

[@Katimorton]

Of course! I am so glad you enjoyed the video!! and omg yes!! Mood tracker apps can help SO much!!! Thank you for mentioning them!!! xoxo

[@PiggyAzaleea]

I have bi polar 2 depressive disorder. Sucks it was always just "depression" for over 10 yrs. It finally got so bad it almost ruined my marriage and ended my life. I so happy I finally got the right meds and my marriage pulled through 😌

[@_just_TK]

So glad you’re in a better place!

[@kimmieann316]

You did such a good explaining this than most of the videos I’ve heard. I have struggled with bipolar since my teens and recently got diagnosed with rapid cycling and ptsd. This is so hard. I feel when I come down I have so much guilt and shame for stuff I’ve done when I was manic. I’m dealing with so much right now. i have been so self destructive with mania before my meds were adjusted. I got myself human trafficking ( told I was taking a modeling job), got involved in addiction issues, and even went homeless before I got back on meds and got adjusted. Some days I still have breakthrough and it’s draining . So true about medication. Off medication I end up somewhere in a bad situation and in psychosis. I know now I can’t be off meds.

[@kierranichole683]

Omg this video helped me sooo much. I was so happy to see something that describes me. I showed my husband to help him understand some of the things I described feeling when I’m having an episode.

[@melinamartins4419]

Such a necessary video! I was diagnosed with bipolar I recentely and I'm afraid to tell others because of all misconception about this disorder. So thanks for sharing the right information to everybody. Hugs from Brazil :)

[@CP-ll6qg]

Really appreciated your comment on medications. There's this cultural narrative about bipolar disorder and creative genius where the mental illness is basically the "price" you pay for being an artist and treating the illness means losing the genius, and that's such a harmful thing. Personally, I *feel* more creative and *think* I'm being more productive when manic. But the reality is that the work I do while in a full episode is actually much lower quality. And more importantly, the goals I'm chasing are not the goals I actually care about the rest of the time. But for a long time I resisted certain treatments because I felt they would kill my creativity, and popular culture definitely supported that line of thinking. The way we talk about artists and musicians matters! Thanks for this, and for all the work you do.

[@AW-qv2lh]

Thank you for sharing this. I’ve been dealing with my bipolar 1 for almost 20 years now and I still have adjust my meds every so often to find what works for me. And sometimes after years in one med, it just stops working. It’s important though to keep trying so I can live a more stable life.

[@elizabethfizer3562]

I always thought I was bipolar, but I was an addict. So when I was high (opiates) I was super happy , excessively talkative etc. And when I ran out of my drugs, I was so depressed because I was in withdrawal. It wasn't until I got clean, I realized I'm pretty evenly tempered, although I still struggle with depression on a daily basis.

[@A_ree_ta]

Thank you so much for this. I was diagnosed back in 2016ish but no doctor has actually explained all of this to me. You’ve just helped me crack years of questioning episodes and my shopping addiction makes sense and I wish I had of known then. (Bipolar II) I’m bankrupt now because of my actions 😬. I joined two mlms while manic as I drove from Nova Scotia to Boston after cutting all my hair off and taking 2 weeks off work.... it all makes much more sense than “I was just a little manic”. That you for helping me understand this better. I’m crying cause I can’t control it. Doctors have been shoving antidepressants down my throat since I was 14. I’m 24 now. 2 attempts and many episodes over the last 10 years. I’ve been on mood stabilizers before and they conk me out. But I’m going to go back to my doctor and get him to listen. Maybe I just need to try one more. Because I don’t want to live like this if I don’t have to. I just always thought I had to live like this. Sorry for my rant Hahahaha. A lot of emotions happening. Just thank you 🙏🏻.

[@briellabeeable]

What a great video! The embarrassment coming back from an episode is always the worst and its what finally drove me back to my psych at 28 for a proper diagnosis. My MD tried a few different anti depressants when my irritability and anxiety would get bad, and I thought I was crazy because none of them worked. Happy I finally sought out a psychiatrist who was able to see it for what it was (bipolar 2) and put me on mood stabilizers. I'm hoping the next 28 years will be a little smoother lol

[@_just_TK]

Glad you’re in a better place! ❤️

[@briellabeeable]

@@_just_TK thanks so much, every day is a new day!

[@xl0001]

Thank you for sharing. It helps me to raise awareness of my bipolar disorder when I listened to your video.

[@renostubbs8504]

This was explained perfectly, amazing presentation...thank you

[@jesusbermudez6775]

I worked in a classroom with 20 students teaching C++ under full blown mania and none of the students noticed it. This was over a period of 5 months. Once this period was over I decided to stop the full blown mania by looking at a mirror and saying to myself "calm down, calm down". I am the only person to have stopped a full blown mania through sheer will power. I am the strongest man there has ever lived.

[@johannamcc96]

Thank you, Kati!

[@SebzDevYT]

I watched you old videos from bipolar disordes a long time ago and they were super helpful to me by informing me properly about the disorder.

[@thomaseskelsen1362]

Thanks for making a video on the 2 types of bipolar disorder. Also I really liked the music at the end. Very cool!

[@miss._em96]

I don’t have bipolar disorders, but I appreciate you updating on this topic that “others” just sweep under the rug along with the other mental health illnesses people struggle with on the daily. CUTE shirt btw😊.

[@marjorinethescenequeen]

Thank you for making videos about bipolar and othere mental health topics just in general! your videos are very educational and amazing :)

[@Katimorton]

Awe of course!! I am so glad they are helpful :) xoxo

[@cindyc]

You are such a lovely young woman. I am certain that your understanding nature helps those who watch these videos and those who receive services from you.

[@lesliewit]

The best part of this for me was the statement that bipolar is not the same for all people. I struggled with folks and my loved one with bipolar consistently trying to justify denying support (people with bipolar are always a mess and never get better) or giving total support with no boundaries (you're just trying to control and manipulate me) for their illness instead of trying a measured approach. Drink water, take your medicine, see your therapist, check in with your psychiatrist, get good rest. It was an "all or nothing" approach for most of them for so long.

[@pegagonza3784]

Hello, thank you for your videos . I’ve been struggling with mood , anger, lack of interest in life, self stem, school, relationships, impulse, sleep troubles, aggressive behavior and so on.

[@saracoombs9724]

Thank you for this video! I live with bipolar 2 disorder. I really want people to understand the difference and the truth about both bipolar 1 and 2.

[@_just_TK]

Kati has videos on both of them! kzbin.info/aero/PL_loxoCVsWqx8Fo1kUZbyQGIPoRBKwqEg

[@drypotatoandjam4180]

Thank you so much for your help!

[@adrianadiaz6224]

Thank you for your videos!! :) Could you make videos of how to properly deal with friends/family members with bipolar disporder / suicidal thoughts/attempts? Through to your videos I've learned a lot about those topics but sometimes it's hard to know how to talk to loved ones who are stuggling with those issues. Thank you, Kati!!

[@MabelRD08]

When I first went to a psychiatrist,she said i wasnt bipolar and that i had severe depression and anxiety disorder. Having watched all this you explained now im worried that I was misdiagnosed. Thanks for this video and for all you do Kati♡

[@zenbamboo2068]

Loving your clear, concise explanations. :)

[@emilytail3997]

I have been diagnosed with both bi polar disorders. Your explanations helped me determine why and have been hospitalized for both depression and mania.

[@briannashanelle4858]

I have Bipolar 2 disorder and want to thank you for making this. It isn't the most common brain illness & so misunderstood. I've been worried that one celebrity's actions would make people generalize everyone with bipolar disorder. At least the people that watch this video have a chance to be properly educated about it.

[@firesong1313]

I was diagnosed with mania and bipolar few years ago but this video helped me understand myself a little better

[@kimakotrotman6860]

The world should see these perspectives.

[@sarahglass6841]

I was a victim of Munchhausen's by proxy (current name I believe is factitious disorder by proxy) by my mother, even though she loved me in what way she could, it was extremely damaging to me, and it was very toxic. She projected lots of her own internal issues on me, and my siblings. I cant speak for my siblings in what all she tried to place on them, however, for me she took me around to about 6 different psychiatrist's offices in the tri-state area to try and have me diagnosed with bi-polar disorder. When one wouldn't diagnose me with it, she left that office and took me elsewhere. each time that she took me to a new place, she would coach me on what to say in the vehicle on the way to the office visit. If I didn't, do and say what she wanted me to, I had hell to pay later. She withheld love, food, and clothing. Essential needs, became things she could use to manipulate us. we learned quickly that she showed us she loved us kids by providing us with the things we needed, and we were the "problem" and acting "bad" and were punished by not having our needs met. Essential needs, such as love, food, clothing, and sometimes even shelter. I'll never forget the time they kicked my brother out of the house and was told to go live somewhere else for "being bad" and disagreeing with our dad, and him standing there looking in the window hoping to be let in. He was only maybe 11 or 12 at the time. or making fun of him, and being dehumanizing and humiliating with his "jokes". As a result, my brother is a workaholic, my sister is an alcoholic and I dealt with depression for many years. I held the belief for many years, that I was the fault, the problem, that I was ill, because when one is told something for so long, to survive, and cope with ones "normal" the mind starts to believe what one is being told. It wasnt until I had my son, and I started numbing out and having flashbacks that I went to a therapist in my adult years, and her diagnoses was/is cptsd. Through talking, through working through traumas I started to see how my emotional reaction (which I wasn't given a healthy environment to learn how to to feel, express emotion, or learn how to regulate emotion on my own when I was a child.) looked like other mental illnesses, but was actually a behavior and response that kept me "safe" when I was a child, but didn't as an adult, and was actually a result of trauma, and condition that was unhealthy. I did that without any medication. In fact when I was younger and I was put on all the anti-psychotic drugs, that I had no reason to be on in the first place, it caused changes in my neurotransmitter and hormone chemistry that was unhealthy, and I have a prolonged QT interval in my heart rhythm that was caused by those medications. I just wish more psychiatrist's and psychologist looked closer at the relationship between trauma and further mental illness.I was lucky to find a therapist that didn't look at my files and treat me as the other things on my chart, and instead seen that it could be something else and explored something the DSM didn't specifically say. Because for some therapists and psychiatrist's they get stuck in only going by the book, and dont see other possibilities, when we only go with what we are told one can lose sight of proper patient care, and by not being open to possibilities and seeing connections one doesnt do everything one can for the person who sought treatment.

[@_just_TK]

Yikes!!! Sorry to hear you had to go through all of that but I’m glad you’re in a better place now. I work in a specialty pharmacy and while I’ve never worked with someone with Munchausen-by-Proxy, (that’s typically pediatric medicine) I have had several patients who we suspected had Munchausen‘s. Kati does have a video on this as well: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a5ezi2Wqp9WVg9U

[@sarahglass6841]

@@_just_TK Thank you for sharing that with me I appreciate it. I've seen munchausens by proxy in pediatrics as well. I've often wondered how much it goes unnoticed, and as a result how many children grow into adults and are misdiagnosed, like I was. But again, thank you. Also, I appreciate it. I'm doing better now, but it took me a long time to get to where I am.

[@cameronswityk3700]

One important and interesting fact about bipolar 2 disorder, according to my psychiatrist and independent research, is commonly misdiagnosed as major depression for an average of 10 years! This is key considering that is 10 years worth of time solidifying patterns of behaviour that may become more difficult to manage later

[@NerdyNat]

Advice given is always to seek psychiatric help and get on a medication, but this is SO difficult to do. The mental health system is very difficult to manage. Even when you want help, it is hard to get, whether be insurance reasons or lack of clinicians accepting patients. Besides my fear of having another manic episode, finding help that is actually helpful more than hurtful is the biggest obstacle for staying healthy. Often I have to accept help from clinicians I feel hurt me more than help, but I absolutely need the medication they have the power to prescribe me in order to stay safe.

[@andreaplaza7525]

Thank you Kati Mortin

[@corackadile]

I was diagnosed as bipolar 2 back in November. I'm forever grateful for my therapist as I am able to better manage my emotions and life. And take medication that helps make my life so much more manageable. The stigma of bipolar needs to be broke and fixed because I know I dont fit the typical "look" of someone who is bipolar. But it's important to understand that bipolar is experienced very differently from person to person. I wish there was a way to explain this to someone but thank you for this video.

[@Arukikedakaii]

I have been diagnosed with Bipolar I some while ago. First it was really tough but no I have a stable treatment, have a stable medication. It took some time to get used to it and... first it felt really weird, but at least I feel more like myself and are 'stable' in a way that my episodes arent as often and as bad as they used to. Thank you for sharing the facts! I should send this video to some people haha'

[@admirbarucija2018]

I’m excited for this video! ❤️ I’ve been exhibiting symptoms of bipolar disorder for quite some time, but have not been officially diagnosed with it

[@Katimorton]

I hope this video was helpful!!! xoxo

[@admirbarucija2018]

Kati Morton It was, thank you so much!!!