World Bipolar Day

Written by Lanna Wei

Overview

Established by global organizations such as the International Society for Bipolar Disorders and the International Bipolar Foundation, World Bipolar Day is celebrated on March 30th every year. The goal of this day is to remove misinformation in society and to encourage individuals to seek help. It’s celebrated this day in acknowledge of famous artist Vincent Van Gogh, who was diagnosed as bipolar by modern-day scientists and psychologists. By raising awareness of this condition, World Bipolar Day aims to break associated stereotypes and spread knowledge to different people across the world. Many events are held such as discussions, seminars, and more, allowing people to share their personal stories and also promote a higher understanding of bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder is characterized by altering extreme mood swings of manic episodes (feeling powerful, giddy, irritable, making risky choices) or depressive episodes (feeling worthless, sleeping a lot, isolation, suicidal thoughts). These episodes last at least a week, and the intensity often causes high disruption to people’s daily lives, affecting work, communication, relationships, and overall health. The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, however psychologists find that it oftentimes associates to genetics, environment, and the structure of one’s brain. Usually showing up during adolescence or early adulthood, this condition is often treated using a mix of therapy and medication, although it usually does not fade away on its own. Over the years, society has produced misinformation and stigma around this mental condition such as exaggerated depictions and portraying these individuals as “insane”.

Because of these stereotypes that exist, it is even more vital to provide accurate information about bipolar disorder to people and prevent the spread of incorrect facts. World Bipolar Day is a day to spread awareness and to normalize talk surrounding this condition, in allowing young people to reach out to professionals if needed.

Sources

https://ibpf.org/learn/programs/world-bipolar-day/

https://medlineplus.gov/bipolardisorder.html#:~:text=Bipolar%20disorder%20is%20a%20mood,is%20called%20a%20depressive%20episode.

https://www.rethink.org/get-involved/awareness-days-and-events/world-bipolar-day/#:~:text=World%20Bipolar%20Day%20is%20celebrated,and%20to%20eliminate%20social%20stigma.

https://www.verywellhealth.com/bipolar-disorder-stigma-5211304#:~:text=Far%20too%20often%2C%20bipolar%20disorder,people%20living%20with%20the%20condition.

https://www.everydayhealth.com/bipolar-disorder/guide/symptoms/