There’s a stigma around many mental health disorders, including bipolar disorder. However, many people don’t really understand what this illness is. World Bipolar Day (WBD) is a global, annual event on March 30 that aims to change that.
About Bipolar Disorder
As a brain condition, bipolar disorder causes abnormal changes in the ability to perform daily tasks. Mainly, it affects people’s moods, activity levels, and energy. Also called manic-depressive disorder, there are four types. However, the two main types are Bipolar I and II.
Bipolar I disorder involves manic episodes or symptoms that are so severe that hospital care can be necessary. These last for at least seven days. Depressive episodes or symptoms usually occur too and last for at least two weeks.
Bipolar II disorder consists of depressive episodes. People with this type of bipolar disorder also experience hypomanic episodes. These are less severe than full-blown mania.
With bipolar disorder, manic and depressive periods are more extreme than the ups and downs that people normally experience. The World Health Organization reports that it’s the sixth-leading cause of worldwide disability. The best way to combat this disorder is to see a bipolar disorder psychiatrist.
The Mission of World Bipolar Day
To address bipolar disorder as a worldwide problem, three advocacy groups joined forces to launch World Bipolar Day. These are the International Society for Bipolar Disorder (ISBD), Asian Network of Bipolar Disorder (ANBD) and International Bipolar Foundation (IBPF).
These groups support efforts to determine the cause of bipolar disorder and improve diagnosis and care options. WBD is a tribute to their success and promotes open discussion, global education, and more sensitivity for the disorder.
Like every year, World Bipolar Day 2019 occurs on Vincent Van Gogh’s birthday, March 30. Experts didn’t diagnose him with bipolar disorder while he was alive. However, he’s very likely to have had it based on historical accounts. The goal of WBD is to make people more aware of the condition and eliminate the related social stigma.
In addition, the ISBD, ANBD, and IBPF aim to help those with bipolar disorder connect. Then, they can build bonds that improve their lives. Furthermore, the groups want to ensure that people have access to the resources that they need.
How People Can Participate in WBD
The general public can participate in World Bipolar Day 2019 through many means. One way is to organize their own community events. Also, organizations can post information on their websites and social media channels or even host live webinars. Individuals can host events in their workplaces and share their own experiences on the WBD social media pages.
Find Help for Bipolar Disorder
Do you have bipolar disorder or have a loved one who does? It’s essential for your overall well-being to get professional help. You can see a bipolar disorder psychiatrist at PACE Mental Health Houston for therapy. Our mental health clinic uses many therapeutic methods for bipolar disorder, including:
Take advantage of the information that’s available during World Bipolar Day. Regain control of your health by getting help at our mental health clinic. Reach out to us at 866.971.8423 to learn more.
