Episode 18 | Could it Be Bipolar Disorder Be Bipolar Disorder

Could it Be Bipolar

This Week on Episode 118 of ADHD rewired we are joined by Dr. Roberto Olivardia. Eric and Roberto discuss the many of the ways we can determine if our ADHD is our only passenger.

ADHD and Bipolar disorder are very commonly misdiagnosed. Roberto shared with us some amazing statistics.

• 70% of people with Bipolar Disorder have ADHD
• 20% of people with ADHD have Bipolar Disorder
• 50% of people with Bipolar Disorder attempt Suicide and 20% succeed at their attempt.

Dr. Olivardia shared many important facts about Bipolar Disorder.

• Proper Diagnosis can take up to 17 years
• Loss of interest in things people are interested in normally
• Severe mood swings
• Bipolar Disorder in incredibly under-diagnosed

Dr. Olivardia stressed the importance of getting a proper diagnosis. Many clinicians know little to nothing about ADHD and it is best to get a mood disorder expert.

Dr. Roberto Olivardia is a Clinical Instructor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School and Clinical Associate at McLean Hospital. He maintains a private psychotherapy practice in Lexington, MA, where he specializes in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), executive functioning issues, body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). He also treats the various issues that accompany learning disabilities, such as stress and negative self- esteem. He is co-author of The Adonis Complex, a book which details the various manifestations of body image problems in men. He has taught courses at the University of Massachusetts Boston and Boston College. He has presented at many talks and conferences around the country. He is on the Scientific Advisory Board for ADDitude Magazine, a publication serving the needs of individuals with ADHD and Learning Disabilities.

For questions and comments for Dr. Roberto Olivardia, you can email him at

[email protected]

Get you copy of "Chasing Kites" at http://tomnardone.net/book

Contact Eric Tivers through his website at http://adhdrewired.com