Bipolar disorder is a very real chronic illness which can be treated and managed. Labelling those with the illness as crazy, dangerous and bewitched only entrenches the stigma further, says Deepa Jaga from Metropolitan’s health division.
Bipolar disorder is a very real chronic illness which can be treated and managed. Labelling those with the illness as crazy, dangerous and bewitched only entrenches the stigma further, says Deepa Jaga from Metropolitan’s health division.
Over four million South Africans who currently suffer from bipolar disorder – a mental illness widely misunderstood, stigmatised and even feared.
Today marks National Bipolar Day; a day which aims to create awareness, educate and eliminate the social stigma surrounding this disease.
Bipolar disorder is a mental condition characterised by periods where the sufferer’s mood veers from one extreme to the next.
They experience bouts of deep depression, where they feel sad, hopeless, guilty and sluggish.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, this is preceded or followed by episodes of extreme elation akin to mania.
“A major myth surrounding bipolar disorder is that it is not a real disease – just a mood swing," said Jaga.
"Bipolar disorder is a very real chronic illness, and like diabetes and cancer it can be treated and managed.”
Bipolar disorder is classified according to two categories.
Type 1 is the most severe manifestation of the disorder and is defined by major manic or mixed episodes.
Type 2 is defined by hypomania – a mild form of mania characterised by elation and hyperactivity.
The length of time spent in each period can vary from a few days to a few weeks or longer.
Bipolar disorder is very different from mood swings that many people experience, which usually last only a few minutes or hours, and are generally milder in nature.
Bipolar disorder tends to run in families, and is considered a genetic illness.
Psychological factors, such as traumatic experiences, and environmental triggers, like substance abuse, can also lead to the development of this illness.
People with bipolar disorder are sometimes referred to as ‘Mafufunyana’ by those in their community; meaning one who has been possessed by an evil spirit or demon.
Due to the limited understanding and lack of awareness around this illness, the symptoms are often misunderstood and sufferers are even shunned by their communities.
“People are often ashamed of suffering from bipolar – yet you wouldn’t feel ashamed of suffering from diabetes, would you?” said Jaga.
While bipolar cannot be cured, it can be managed in the long term.
Proper medical treatment can help sufferers gain better control over their mood swings and related symptoms.
It is also important to create a solid support system of family and friends who can help recognise and manage an episode.
“If left untreated, bipolar disorder can lead to risky behaviour, damaged relationships and even suicidal tendencies,” said Jaga.
“If you know someone who you suspect suffers from the disorder, the most important thing you can do is to help them get the right diagnosis and treatment by ensuring that they contact their treating practitioner.”
