World Bipolar Day
March 30th marks a global effort to raise awareness and understanding of bipolar while tackling the stigma around the condition.
World Bipolar Day is celebrated every year on the 30th of March – the birthday of Vincent Van Gogh, who was diagnosed with bipolar after he died. We commemorate World Bipolar Day to increase awareness and understanding of bipolar, while tackling stigma.
On this day, we shed light on the various aspects of bipolar, a mental health condition that affects around 2% of people in Scotland. Bipolar can cause persistent mood swing episodes, often from one extreme to the other.
Bipolar involves episodes of manic and depressive episodes, not to be confused with depression. During manic episodes, individuals may experience elevated energy levels, impulsive behaviour and an inflated sense of self-worth. Conversely, depressive episodes bring about overwhelming sadness, fatigue and a loss of interest in activities.
tackling stigma
What we can do on World Bipolar Day is break down stigma surrounding bipolar, foster empathy and encourage open conversations. By sharing information and personal stories, we can create a supportive environment for those experiencing bipolar and for their loved ones.
Tackling stigma starts with using non-stigmatising language.
- Not referring to it as a disorder, the condition is just ‘bipolar’
- Not using terms like “they are bipolar”. Say “They have bipolar” or “they are experiencing bipolar”. We should never reduce an individual to their condition.
- Avoid using terms like ‘crazy’ or ‘unstable’ as it can reinforce misconceptions and create barriers to seeking help.
- Assigning blame or moral judgement to individuals with bipolar reinforces stigma. Avoid saying “they’re so difficult to deal with because they’re bipolar”.
“If I hadn’t found the group here, I really don’t know where I’d be right now. I’ve found it’s boosted my confidence and it’s helping me push to do things I’d never thought about before. I’ve had one-to-one help and I go to men’s group every Wednesday.
“The group structure has been fundamental to my general wellbeing – knowing that I have the Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday with peer support and even volunteering.”
James, who experiences bipolar, is supported by Change Mental Health in Stranraer
facts about bipolar
- In the United Kingdom, approximately 1.3 million individuals are affected by bipolar, representing 2% of the entire population in Scotland and the UK.
- The World Health Organization recognizes bipolar as one of the leading causes of lost years of life among individuals aged 15 to 44.
- On average, it takes 10 years to receive an accurate diagnosis of bipolar.
- In addition to getting an accurate diagnosis, up to 40% of people with bipolar are misdiagnosed with something else.
Across Scotland, we’re supporting people experiencing bipolar in communities. Help us support more people and tackle stigma by taking part in a challenge event. It could be an abseil, a running event or a walk – that’s up to you!
On World Bipolar Day and throughout the year, we share information about bipolar. By engaging with these posts and our messaging, you can help us reach more people and bring us closer to a future where no one faces mental illness alone.
Need flyers to share and put up in your community. Get in contact with us and we’ll help you out!
support
Bipolar Scotland runs a number of online and in-person groups across Scotland to bring together people living with bipolar to share and learn from one another. They also have a number of resources for self-management and educating yourself on the topic of bipolar.
Our National Advice and Support Service can help you and people you care for with mental health concerns and money worries.
We can link and signpost you to relevant local and national support, including our own Change Mental Health services, as well supporting with debt, grants and benefits.
The service is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (closed for lunch between 12.30pm to 1.30pm). Contact 0808 8010 515, email advice@changemh.org or fill in the form on the service webpage.
For full details about the service, visit the National Advice and Support Service webpage.
