By What at first glance appear to be strategic manipulation tactics could actually be manifestations of the characteristic symptoms of bipolar disorder. Find out how to identify and manage this situation.
Thinking that bipolar patients are manipulative is a mistake based on stereotypes. In reality, each individual with the disorder is unique , so overlooking the wide variety of clinical experiences in mental illness is inappropriate.
One of the factors that contributes to confusion is related to some behaviors that the person has during episodes of mania, where impulsivity, exaltation and lack of inhibition are representative.
Bipolarity and emotional manipulation
Before exploring the relationship between bipolar disorder and psychological manipulation, it is necessary to define both concepts in order to understand the link.
What is bipolarity?
This is a mental disorder that, according to the WHO , affects about 40 million people. It is characterized by extreme changes in mood, with alternating episodes of mania or hypomania and depression.
During manic episodes, individuals often display impulsive behavior, euphoria, irritability, increased energy, and reduced need for sleep. Depressive phases, meanwhile, are characterized by profound sadness and hopelessness, among other manifestations.
If euphoric and depressive symptoms are combined, the episode is said to be mixed. A study published in CNS Drugs indicates that 40% of people with bipolar disorder experience mixed episodes and that the severity of the condition is greater compared to those who do not experience them.
What is psychological manipulation?
Manipulation refers to the attempt to alter someone’s thoughts, perceptions, emotions, or actions in order to gain personal gain. The techniques used range from overt strategies to more covert methods.
To a greater or lesser extent, we all exert some degree of control and influence over others. In some cases, manipulation is unintentional or without malice; however, it can be damaging to those involved.
On the other hand, there are the textbook manipulators, who do not hesitate to use deception and emotional blackmail as their main tools to undermine the victim’s self-esteem and autonomy.
Why is it said that bipolar people are manipulative?
The idea that bipolar patients are manipulative arises from stigmatization and misinterpretation of their symptoms. During manic episodes, judgment is impaired and inhibition is diminished, leading to impulsive actions, sudden mood swings, high energy levels, and aggression.
They can go from a euphoric and sociable state to an irritable and exalted one, disconcerting those around them. Also, due to excessive self-confidence during these trances, it is possible to make grandiose promises that later prove very difficult to keep.
These symptoms, which are part of the condition, are often misinterpreted as manipulation, because they may seem like deliberate actions to influence others.
So is it correct to associate bipolarity with manipulation?
Bipolar individuals have the capacity to be manipulative, just like anyone who does not suffer from the disorder. However, the behaviors associated with manic episodes are not conscious manipulative strategies, but rather possible manifestations of the illness.
That is, what they do reflects the emotional and cognitive challenges they face due to their condition; they are not malicious actions. Although these behaviors are misleading, they are not intended to hurt or harm others.
It is important to understand that bipolar disorder has no direct connection to manipulation. But if you have someone close to you who has the diagnosis, it would be quite helpful to practice the strategies outlined here to address situations in which their symptoms may give the appearance of manipulative behavior.
How to act when bipolar symptoms give the impression of manipulation
First of all, to detect this situation, it is crucial that you pay attention to the signs that the person with bipolar disorder would exert some manipulation as a result of the phase they are experiencing:
- Take unnecessary risks
- He makes exaggerated and unbelievable praise
- Promises extraordinary things that are impossible to fulfill
- Has unexpected changes in behavior or opinion
- Shows an excessive need for external attention and validation
Once you identify this scenario, you can employ practical tools to establish clear and healthy boundaries in your interaction. Let’s look at them below.
1. Remember that what you do is part of your symptoms
Keep in mind that these actions are related to bipolar disorder and therefore are not under his or her full control. For example, if the individual makes you proposals for ambitious ventures and assures you that they will turn into multi-million dollar businesses in a short time, remember that he or she is not trying to deceive or scam you. Rather, it could be a way in which his or her disorder expresses itself .
2. Avoid arguments at critical moments
During episodes, your ability to process information and engage in rational debate may be impaired. Instead of trying to explain things logically or engaging in conflict, focus on staying calm and offering support. Wait for your emotional stability to return , so you can approach any situation with a clearer, more logical approach.
3. Seek help for both yourself and the person with bipolar disorder
Accompanying someone with this condition during their critical phases is quite a challenge, and it is okay to admit that sometimes we don’t know how to handle it. So do n’t hesitate to seek help from other family members, friends and/or professionals involved in their treatment.
Remember also that self-care is key to maintaining well-being and, at the same time, being able to contain and support others in difficult times. Take care of yourself so you can take care of others .
Learn about bipolar disorder, eradicate the stigma
We are talking about a complex clinical picture that affects millions of people around the world. To challenge misconceptions about bipolar disorder, it is essential to have a deeper understanding of it. In this article, we learned that bipolar patients are not inherently manipulative or deliberately seeking to cause conflict.
Learning, sharing knowledge and promoting inclusion are fundamental steps to building a more informed, empathetic and supportive society in the face of diverse experiences.