Bipolar Disorder, Social Stigma
From total happiness to bitter tears, or from absolute patience to the strangest outburst...
Bipolar disorder is a mental disorder characterized by extreme mood swings. It characteristically presents with two phases; the manic phase, with euphoric outbursts, excessive self-esteem, increased libido and a decreased need for sleep and ability to concentrate; and a depressive phase during which the person may experience profound sadness, loss of interest in daily activities, fatigue, weight loss or gain, and difficulty sleeping, including thoughts of suicide or death.
Of course, both phases can coexist, giving rise to the mixed phase, in which the emotional changes in those affected are more noticeable.
The Mexican Ministry of Health estimates that between 1 to 3% of the population suffers from bipolar disorder, which means that close to 3 million Mexicans are bipolar. The exact causes of bipolar disorder are not clear, but it is believed that there is a combination of genetic, biological and environmental factors. Diagnosis is made through a psychiatric and medical evaluation, which includes interviews, physical examinations and laboratory tests. Its treatment requires a multidisciplinary team whose objective is an early identification of this disorder as it can lead to a major disruption of the individual's life causing financial, legal, interpersonal relationship, substance abuse, occupational, and related physical and mental health problems. The purpose of the drugs prescribed in this disorder is to stabilize the mood manifested in the acute phases and to prevent recurrence.
Some celebrities who have spoken openly about their condition are Demi Lovato, Mariah Carey, Kanye West, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Jim Carrey, Mel Gibson and Jean-Claude Van Damme. In Mexico, Ari Telch, Ximena Sariñana and Lupita D'Alessio represent those who suffer from this disorder.
World Bipolar Disorder Day (March 30) is commemorated with the aim of raising awareness about this condition and eliminating social stigma. This date was established because this day commemorates the birth of Vincent Van Gogh, who was diagnosed with this mental illness.
Regardless of the profession of each individual suffering from bipolar disorder, it is worth mentioning that their performance does not have to be impaired and that this diagnosis should not be used to prematurely judge the competencies of individuals.
It is important that if you think you or someone you know may be experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, you see a mental health professional (psychiatrist) so that assertive treatment can be initiated.