Intelligence is a variable that is not directly linked to bipolar people. In other words, there is no scientific evidence that supports a type of intelligence superior to population average of humans who have not been diagnosed with the disorder bipolar. Despite this, various investigations have verified that the development of certain capacities cognitive disorders could influence the emergence of mental health problems such as bipolarity. In this sense, it is necessary to carry out a clear review of the physiological processes involved in the processing of information from external stimuli. Currently, there is great confusion around this issue and doubts persist about the incidence of this diagnosis.
But, Are bipolar people smarter? In this Psychology-Online article we will solve all your doubts about it.
The truth is there is no scientific evidence and/or empirical evidence that bipolar disorder increases IQ. However, some manic episodes can be confused with a greater associative, reflective and intuitive capacity.
However, this does not imply that the person has higher levels of intelligence. For this reason, the passage through periods of recurring thoughts and innovative ideas only represents a particular moment of the disease.
Diagnostic criteria for bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder corresponds to a defined clinical picture according to the DSM-V[1], which must meet a series of diagnostic criteria. Next, we will talk about them in detail:
- Alternating episodes of mania and depression.
- hobby presents flight of ideas, increased distraction and participation of risky activities.
- Depression causes a decreased interest by pleasurable activities for the person, fatigue and thoughts of death or suicide.
- The duration ranges from 3 and 6 months.
- The alterations cannot be explained by the presence of other mental disorders or by the intake of toxic substances and/or medications.
The diagnosis should always be made by a mental health professional, who will be in charge of evaluating the clinical status of the person who has these difficulties. In this article you will find more information about How to know if a person is bipolar.
Despite the fact that IQ does not present a direct relationship with bipolarity, there are strategies aimed at developing specific skills. Next, we explain how you can boost intelligence if you are bipolar:
- Perform psychological therapy: Going to a mental health professional helps implement strategies to cope with stress, anxiety and/or in a more enjoyable way. It is worth noting the unequivocal relationship between mania, depression and intelligence.
- brain stimulation: carrying out activities that imply a cognitive effort accounts for a greater production of chemical substances. Here practices such as reading, solving logical problems of mathematics, acquisition of new skills, among others, can be included.
- stress domain: Mood variability is one of the major problems of this disorder. For this reason, it is essential to learn master stress that occurs in various situations. Given this, the use of progressive muscle relaxation techniques and meditation will provide great relief. Mastering nervous tension will provide the person with the necessary support to enhance intelligence.
- physical health care: Maintaining a healthy diet and a routine of physical exercises helps to maintain both a physical and mental balance. This balance will provide the necessary conditions to have mental energy and thus develop intelligence.
This article is merely informative, at Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.
