Aware joins mental health organisations worldwide calling for better understanding to eliminate social stigma and promote acceptance

Global theme of #BipolarTogether aims to connect, educate and inspire hope

• 1-2% (up to 1 in 50 people) in Ireland experience a lifetime prevalence of bipolar disorder
• Free Aware Living Well With Bipolar Disorder Programme open for registration

Ireland. Sunday 24th March 2024: In support of World Bipolar Day this Saturday 30th March, mental health organisation Aware will run a weeklong campaign under the global theme of #BipolarTogether which aims to highlight that we are all in this together - whether living with bipolar disorder, supporting a loved one or simply as an advocate for mental wellness. Affecting up to 40 million people worldwide (WHO, 2022), it is estimated that 1-2% of people in Ireland experience a lifetime prevalence of bipolar disorder. It is a complex and chronic condition characterized by extreme changes in mood and energy and can have a profound impact on every aspect of a person’s day-to-day life. World Bipolar Day is celebrated on the birthday of Vincent Van Gogh, who was posthumously diagnosed as having bipolar disorder. Its goal is to inspire a global shift in thinking that will eliminate social stigma and promote acceptance.

Throughout this week, Aware will aim to increase understanding of bipolar disorder by sharing lived experience perspectives, along with clinical expertise to educate the public on the causes, course and consequences of the condition. The organisation is encouraging people to visit www.aware.ie/worldbipolarday to engage with its wide range of resources to include free educational programmes specifically designed for people with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder or those supporting a loved one.

Bipolar disorder is characterised by periods of low (depressed), high (elated) or mixed mood separated by periods of normal mood. While it can be difficult to diagnose, the first signs are often seen in late teens or early adulthood. Symptoms can be severe, but it is possible to live a healthy and productive life once the illness is effectively treated. Correct diagnosis of both bipolar disorder and the type of bipolar disorder a person is experiencing is essential for successful treatment.

Dr Susan Brannick, Clinical Director at Aware commented, “World Bipolar Day provides a great opportunity for mental health organisations worldwide to come together and bring global awareness to bipolar disorder, to educate and improve public understanding of the condition, as well as ensuring those with a diagnosis are familiar with the supports available to them. Unfortunately, stigma continues to be a challenge faced by many people living with bipolar disorder, and their families. The impact of stigma can be significant, affecting symptom levels, quality of life and even access to services. Stigma can be understood as lack of knowledge and/or negative beliefs which further reinforces the importance of awareness campaigns like World Bipolar Day.”

The course of bipolar disorder is very variable. If poorly managed or left untreated, it can result in worsening of symptoms and more frequent episodes that last longer. It is a condition that requires lifelong management - and knowledge is an essential first step. Empowering people to look after their mental health is an integral part of Aware’s work and the organisation has developed a programme specifically designed to address the needs of people living with bipolar disorder. The Aware Living Well With Bipolar Disorder Programme is an education and support programme that aims to provide participants with opportunities to understand and manage bipolar disorder effectively, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to live well. The free programme consists of one 90-minute session per week, over a period of eight weeks and is delivered by a mental health professional.

Commenting on the programme, Dr Brannick said: “A recent *survey in the UK indicated that 67% of people with bipolar disorder did not receive self-management advice when they were first diagnosed and 72% knew no one else with the condition. Self-management and knowing your own condition is a central part of living well with bipolar disorder. Aware’s Living Well With Bipolar Disorder programme offers participants the time to understand their own experiences, develop a wellness plan and meet others with shared experiences. I would really encourage anyone who would like to learn more about bipolar disorder and how to live well with the condition to consider registering for the upcoming phase of virtual and in-person programmes.”

For those supporting a loved one experiencing bipolar disorder or depression, Aware offers a Relatives & Friends Programme, a psycho-educational programme which was developed in response to a clear need for information, understanding and practical support. The free programme consists of six hours, over four weeks and aims to equip participants with the tools to understand and support a loved one, whilst maintaining their own health and wellbeing.

To engage with Aware’s resources on bipolar disorder or to register for Aware’s free Living Well With Bipolar Disorder Programme or Relatives & Friends Programme (both available in-person and virtually via Zoom), please visit www.aware.ie.