It’s World Bipolar Day on the 30th of March—the date was chosen to honour the birthday of Vincent van Gogh, who is widely believed to have lived with the condition.
For many people in Somerset, bipolar disorder isn’t just a clinical term; it’s a lived reality. Roughly 1 in 50 people in the UK live with bipolar. But despite being more common than many of us might think, it’s one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions, often surrounded by unhelpful myths and stigma.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar is a mood disorder that can cause moods to swing from extreme highs (mania) to extreme lows (depression). These aren’t the typical ups and downs we all face in daily life. They are intense, often long-lasting episodes that can change how we think, feel, and act.
Mania and Hypomania: We might feel incredibly happy, excited, or full of big ideas. Sometimes, this comes with racing thoughts, talking very quickly, or making impulsive decisions like spending money we don’t have. Hypomania is a milder version where symptoms aren’t quite as extreme but still affect our day-to-day life.
Depression: During these times, we might feel hopeless, worthless, or lose interest in everything we usually enjoy. We might struggle to sleep or find ourselves sleeping far too much.
Mixed Episodes: Sometimes, people experience symptoms of both at the same time—feeling restless and overactive while also feeling deeply sad or hopeless.
Breaking the Stigma
One of the hardest parts of living with bipolar can be the judgment from others. Stigma often grows when people don’t understand that bipolar is a complex, long-term health condition, not some kind of personal character flaw.
People living with bipolar might worry about telling their boss or feel nervous about how friends will react. This year’s theme, #BipolarStrong, reminds us that managing these mood swings takes incredible resilience.
Years of living with bipolar can build a deep understanding of other people’s struggles and some people find that creativity, passion, and vision come alongside the challenging aspects of the condition like depression and anxiety.
By talking openly, we help everyone see the person, and the strengths, behind the diagnosis.
Taking the First Step
If you’ve noticed that your moods are affecting your work, studies, or relationships, it’s okay to ask for help. The NHS has guidance and advice about the condition. Getting a diagnosis can sometimes take time because symptoms can look like other things, including standard depression.
If you’re worried about yourself:
Speak to your GP: This is usually the first port of call.
Check out our emotional wheel and workbook: Tracking how you feel over a few weeks can help you and your doctor see any patterns.
Reach out to us: We offer support 24/7 across Somerset. Whether you just need to talk to an understanding listener or want guidance on where to turn, Mindline Somerset is available to help, and you can ask the person on the phone to refer you to Open Mental Health’s wider services. Call 01823 276892 or freephone 0800 138 1692
Supporting a Loved One with Bipolar Disorder
If someone you care about has bipolar, you might feel unsure of how to help. Simply being there and listening without judgment is a huge support. And remember—your wellbeing matters too. Being a carer can be exhausting, so make sure you’re getting the support you need—visit the Somerset Carers website to find out more.
It might be helpful to encourage a loved one to read this guide to staying well with bipolar. Mind have tips for self-managing bipolar disorder and Rethink provide an informative fact sheet that can help everyone understand more about living with the condition.
Call us, anytime.
📞 Locally 01823 276892
📞 Freephone 0800 138 1692