World Bipolar Day

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects mood, causing extreme highs and
lows. It was previously known as manic depression and can involve manic, depressive, and
sometimes psychotic symptoms.

There are different types of bipolar disorder, and while the exact cause isn’t known, it’s thought
to be a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Treatment usually includes medication and
talk therapy to help manage symptoms and support wellbeing.

World Bipolar Day is observed annually on March 30th, the birthday of Vincent Van Gogh, who
was posthumously diagnosed with probable bipolar disorder, specifically featuring alternating
episodes of intense, frenetic creativity (mania) and deep, despairing depression. Other
symptoms included extreme mood swings, insomnia, rapid speech, reckless behavior, self-harm
(manifesting in the extreme action of cutting off his ear), psychosis, and bouts of high anxiety.

The following are some key symptoms that bipolar sufferers share and how they manifested
with Van Gogh.

The artist experienced manic episodes characterized by intense energy, high productivity (e.g.
painting dozens of works in short periods), decreased desire for sleep, and high irritability. He
and others suffering from bipolar disorder often feel extremely happy, excited, or even
euphoric during a manic episode.

Depressive episodes include feelings of deep melancholy, remorse (even if the sufferer has
done no wrong that they know of), profound sadness, social withdrawal, and physical
symptoms like weakness and indigestion. These low periods often follow manic episodes, but
not always. Sufferers may feel very sad, hopeless, or empty. Low energy and lethargy are
common, particularly after a manic episode in which the sufferer expended much energy and
took little rest.

Occasional confusion is a common symptom of bipolar disorder. Sufferers may struggle to
concentrate and make decisions. Vincent’s letters to his brother delve deep into his feelings of
his mind feeling scattered and unable to pick a path. Sufferers of bipolar disorder may
demonstrate impulsive behavior, reckless actions, and high emotional volatility. Vincent went on to experience psychosis and delirium with auditory and visual hallucinations, severeparanoia, and, in one instance, self-mutilation by severing his left ear with a razor.

Vincent’s conditions were likely exacerbated by alcohol abuse (specifically absinthe),
malnutrition, and intense anxiety. While most scholars agree that his illness was complex, possibly involving borderline personality disorder, epilepsy, or alcohol-induced delirium, bipolar disorder is widely regarded as a primary diagnosis or his dramatic mood changes.

Initiated by the International Society for Bipolar Disorders (ISBD), this day aims to raise global
awareness, eliminate social stigma, and provide education regarding the condition. Key facts
about World Bipolar Day include the following.

− Its purpose is to inform the public, reduce stigma, and improve sensitivity toward
individuals with bipolar disorder.
− It is a collaborative effort between the ISBD, Asian Network of Bipolar Disorder (ANBD),
and the International Bipolar Foundation (IBPF).
− It promotes education about the different types of bipolar disorder which cause unusual
shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels.
− Supporters can use hashtags like #WorldBipolarDay and #BipolarStrong, share
educational materials, and participate in events to promote acceptance and share
stories.

The day acts as a call to action for improved care and understanding of this mental health
condition. Get NIMH’s free brochures and fact sheets with more information about bipolar
disorder in young people and adults, including signs, symptoms, and treatment options. To
learn more about why and how NIMH is studying bipolar disorder, visit NIMH’s bipolar disorder
webpage.

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