Bipolar Support Group

The last time I was in a psych unit, one of the nurses told me she's never met a person with Bipolar that was not intelligent. What's your thoughts on this?

From what I understand, high IQ and bipolar are closely linked due to the creative aspects of the disorder. Not to brag, but I'm considered gifted and qualify for MENSA and I attribute it all to my bipolar. Even though I was considered gifted back in school, I think my intelligence was further heightened because of my bipolar. When I'm manic, it's as if my IQ increases by 50 points and when I'm level, it decreases 50 points -- or so it seems to me.

P.S. I hope no one considers me a snob for what I just wrote. I don't mean to act like I'm smarter than anyone else here. Intelligence comes in many different forms -- not just IQ. If truth be told, I don't like the idea of people with high IQs joining an organization like MENSA (even if it is to discuss culture, arts, etc.) which is why I'm not a member.

Anyways, enough about me. Back on topic...

I was also a considered gifted as a child. I was supposed to skip a grade in elementary school, but opted for an advanced program at a different school. I think that does have a lot to do with my bp.

Jen

This is my first post to this group. I was IQ tested as a child and had an IQ of 180. I swear when I'm manic I go right back up there, maybe farther. But when I'm on the meds and evened out I'm no where near there. My creativity is gone. I love to write and when I'm on the meds and evened out I couldn't write a poem to save my life. But let me get off of them and get manic and I'll spit 'em out one after another. I also was up to skip a grade in school in elementary but my parents thought it would be bad for my socially so they kept me in the grade I was supposed to be all bored and all. Anyway, I'm glad I found you all. I've been reading your posts for a few days but didn't have the guts to say anything until now. I never thought about looking for support online before. I'm glad I found you.

Welcome, rmm! It's nice to have you here! I hope you'll keep posting!

I'm glad I'm not alone re: IQ and giftedness. I was afraid of mentioning anything about being gifted for fear of sounding like a snob, but it's nice to know others share the same experiences I do.

Interesting thread, BTW!

Post edited by: neondreams, at: 02/28/2009 09:30

As long as I don't have to do math I am somewhat intelligent.

Post edited by: uppitywoman, at: 02/28/2009 09:32

i too tested in the gifted range and get bored easily. i think there is a fine line between genius and madness

yeah uppitywoman ,

Do mnot feel bad math was never my fortay and still is not .