World Bipolar Day
March 30th marks a global effort to raise awareness and support for those with bipolar, promoting understanding and acceptance
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. This day is dedicated to increasing awareness, acceptance and understanding of bipolar.
It serves as an occasion to popularise information about bipolar, which will educate and improve sensitivity towards the condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide.
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.
The objective of World Bipolar Day is to break down the stigma surrounding bipolar, foster empathy and encourage open conversations about mental health. By sharing information and personal stories, we strive to create a supportive environment for those with bipolar and their loved ones.
Common myths about bipolar
Bipolar is just extreme mood swings
Bipolar is not simply a matter of experiencing highs and lows. Bipolar involves distinct episodes of mania or hypomania (elevated mood) and depression. These episodes can last for weeks or even months, impacting a person’s daily life and functioning.
Bipolar is a rare condition
Bipolar affects a significant portion of the population worldwide. According to Bipolar UK, more than 1 million people in the United Kingdom are diagnosed with bipolar. It can occur in individuals of any age, race or socioeconomic background.
People with bipolar are always either extremely happy or sad
Bipolar involves a spectrum of mood states. It’s not just about extreme happiness (mania) or sadness (depression). There are different types of bipolar, including Bipolar I and Bipolar II. Individuals may experience a range of moods and intensities.
Facts about Bipolar
- In the United Kingdom, approximately 1.3 million individuals are affected by bipolar, representing 2% of the entire population.
- 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
Joining a challenge event not only allows you to become a mental health ambassador and support Change Mental Health but also provides a platform to share your own story or the story of someone close to your heart, creating a powerful narrative that raises awareness about living with bipolar and breaks the stigma around this condition.
Check out the upcoming challenge events in your area and take a step towards understanding, empathy, and fundraiseng crucial funding for Change Mental Health. Do you have your own idea? Get in contact with us today!
Are you aware of any local companies or clubs that are interested in supporting people dealing with mental illness and poor mental health? At Change Mental Health, we highly value partnerships with businesses and community groups.
If you know of any opportunities for partnership, regardless of size, please contact our fundraising team. Partnerships enable us to raise awareness, reach more people, and raise crucial funds to help individuals with bipolar disorder obtain the necessary support they require when they need it, and in a way that best suits them.
On World Bipolar Day, we will be posting information about bipolar across our social media channels. Follow us on our social media channels and engage with us, whether that be liking the post or sharing it, you help us to reach more people and bring us closer to building a society that is free from mental health stigma and discrimination.
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 Advice and Support Service is open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 4 pm, where advisers can signpost you to local support that most fits your needs, including our own Change Mental Health services. We offer initial advice on money worries and help to deal with emergencies.
Contact 0808 8010 515, email us at advice@changemh.org or fill out the enquiry form on the Advice and Support Service page.
