Every year on March 30th, the world comes together to recognize World Bipolar Day—a day dedicated to raising awareness, promoting education, and challenging the stigma surrounding bipolar disorder. Chosen to coincide with the birthday of world-renowned artist Vincent van Gogh, who is believed to have lived with bipolar disorder, this global observance serves as a powerful reminder that mental health conditions can affect anyone, regardless of their background, creativity, or success.

Bipolar disorder is often misunderstood and misrepresented, even though it affects millions of people around the globe. This lack of understanding fuels stigma, creates barriers to treatment, and leaves many people feeling isolated. World Bipolar Day encourages us to have open, honest conversations about mental health and to recognize that those living with bipolar disorder are not defined by their diagnosis. They are our friends, family members, coworkers, and community members, all deserving of empathy, support, and access to quality care.

In this blog, we’ll dive deep into what bipolar disorder really is, who it affects, and how it’s diagnosed and treated. You’ll learn about the different types of bipolar disorder, common symptoms, and how it presents in children and teens. We’ll also explore the connection between bipolar disorder and creativity and offer practical tips on how to support loved ones living with the condition.

Whether you’re seeking to understand your own experience or want to better support someone you care about, this blog will help break down myths, provide clarity, and offer hope. Together, we can work toward a future where mental health is treated with the same compassion and respect as physical health—and where stigma no longer stands in the way of healing.

World Bipolar Day is more than a date on the calendar—it is a global initiative aimed at increasing understanding of bipolar disorder, improving access to mental health care, and eradicating the stigma that often surrounds this condition. Held annually on March 30th, the day serves as a platform for education, advocacy, and empathy, encouraging communities around the world to engage in meaningful dialogue about mental health.

This important awareness day was established through the collaboration of three major mental health organizations: the International Society for Bipolar Disorders (ISBD), the International Bipolar Foundation (IBPF), and the Asian Network of Bipolar Disorder (ANBD). These organizations joined forces to create a unified global effort that would not only highlight the challenges faced by individuals with bipolar disorder but also celebrate their strength, creativity, and contributions to society.

At its core, World Bipolar Day seeks to humanize bipolar disorder. Too often, the condition is either sensationalized or misunderstood, reduced to stereotypes that harm rather than help. By promoting education and sharing real stories, the initiative hopes to replace fear with understanding and judgment with compassion. The ultimate goal is to create a world where people with bipolar disorder feel empowered to seek support without shame and can live full, meaningful lives with dignity and hope.

The choice of March 30th is deeply symbolic—it is the birthday of Vincent van Gogh, the legendary post-impressionist painter whose life was marked by both brilliance and profound psychological distress. Though he was never formally diagnosed during his lifetime, modern scholars and mental health professionals widely believe that van Gogh experienced symptoms consistent with bipolar disorder, including extreme mood swings, periods of elevated creativity and productivity, and episodes of deep depression and psychosis.

Van Gogh’s emotional turbulence and his struggle to find peace in a world that often misunderstood him mirror the experiences of many individuals living with bipolar disorder today. His artistic genius and vulnerability make him a powerful symbol for the World Bipolar Day movement. His life serves as both a cautionary tale about the costs of untreated mental illness and an inspiring reminder that those with bipolar disorder can possess extraordinary talents and insights.

By aligning the observance with van Gogh’s legacy, World Bipolar Day connects the past with the present, emphasizing that progress in mental health care must be rooted in empathy, education, and the celebration of human complexity.

Bipolar disorder is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition characterized by extreme and unpredictable mood shifts. These changes go far beyond the everyday emotional ups and downs most people experience. Rather than momentary fluctuations, bipolar disorder involves intense episodes of mania and depression that can last for days, weeks, or even months and significantly disrupt an individual’s ability to function in daily life.

At its core, bipolar disorder is defined by the cyclical nature of these mood episodes. During manic phases, individuals may feel euphoric, unusually energetic, or overly confident, often leading to impulsive decisions and risky behavior. In contrast, depressive episodes bring profound sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and in some cases, thoughts of self-harm or suicide. These episodes are not simply “moodiness”—they are deeply rooted in biological, psychological, and environmental factors and require appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

It is crucial to understand that bipolar disorder is more than just mood swings. While everyone experiences changes in mood from time to time, those with bipolar disorder experience shifts that are far more severe and disruptive. A typical mood swing might result from a stressful event or a bad day; a bipolar episode can arise with no identifiable trigger and impair one’s ability to work, study, maintain relationships, or care for oneself. The highs and lows of bipolar disorder are not within the individual’s control and often require medical intervention to manage.

Bipolar disorder exists on a spectrum, meaning symptoms can vary in intensity and presentation. The primary types include:

Bipolar I Disorder is the most severe form. It is defined by at least one full manic episode, which may include psychosis—delusions or hallucinations—and often requires hospitalization. Depressive episodes are common but not necessary for a diagnosis.

Bipolar II Disorder involves at least one hypomanic episode—a milder form of mania—and one or more major depressive episodes. Hypomania can appear productive or energetic but can still impair functioning, especially when followed by debilitating depression.

Cyclothymic Disorder is marked by chronic mood instability. Individuals experience frequent periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms for at least two years (one year in children), though these symptoms don’t meet the full criteria for manic or major depressive episodes.

Other variations on the spectrum include Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (BD-NOS) and rapid-cycling bipolar disorder, where individuals experience four or more mood episodes per year. These forms underscore the variability in how bipolar disorder presents and reinforce the importance of a personalized approach to diagnosis and treatment.

Recognizing the symptoms of bipolar disorder is essential for early intervention, effective treatment, and long-term management. Unlike temporary emotional ups and downs, the symptoms of bipolar disorder are intense, persistent, and can dramatically interfere with a person’s life. These symptoms generally fall into three categories: manic episodes, depressive episodes, and mixed episodes—each presenting its own challenges and risks.

Signs of manic episodes 

A manic episode is marked by an abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood that lasts for at least one week and is present most of the day, nearly every day. During this time, a person may feel as though they are unstoppable, invincible, or filled with boundless energy.

Common symptoms include:

• High energy levels and reduced need for sleep (e.g., going several nights without rest and feeling “great”) 
• Impulsive behavior, such as excessive spending, reckless driving, or quitting a job without warning 
• Racing thoughts and rapid speech, jumping from topic to topic 
• Grandiose beliefs or inflated self-esteem (e.g., thinking they have special powers or an urgent mission to accomplish) 
• In more severe cases, delusions or hallucinations 

Just as an example: A college student experiencing mania might suddenly decide to start five new business ventures, max out their credit cards on supplies, and believe they are destined to be the next tech billionaire—all while sleeping only two hours a night and skipping classes entirely.

Signs of depressive episodes

On the other end of the spectrum, depressive episodes in bipolar disorder can be just as debilitating. These periods often last at least two weeks and are characterized by overwhelming sadness or emptiness that interferes with daily life.

Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue and lack of energy, even after sleeping 
• Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness 
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities (also known as anhedonia) 
• Changes in appetite or sleep 
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions 
• Thoughts of death or suicide 

An example would be a parent with bipolar disorder who may find themselves unable to get out of bed, missing work for days, ignoring personal hygiene, and feeling convinced their family would be better off without them—all despite having no clear external reason for the emotional downturn.

Mixed episodes in bipolar disorder

Mixed episodes—also called mixed features—occur when symptoms of mania and depression happen simultaneously or in rapid succession. These episodes are particularly dangerous due to the internal conflict they produce and the heightened risk of impulsive, self-destructive behavior.

Symptoms may include:

• Agitation and restlessness
  
• Racing thoughts combined with deep despair 
• Irritability, anxiety, or rage 
• Insomnia with overwhelming exhaustion 
• Increased risk for self-harm or suicide 

One example might be a person in a mixed episode who may feel intensely anxious and full of nervous energy while also feeling emotionally numb and hopeless. They may pace the room for hours, unable to calm their thoughts, all while experiencing a crushing sense of worthlessness—putting them at greater risk of impulsive self-injury or suicidal actions.

While bipolar disorder is often associated with adults, it can also affect children and adolescents, sometimes in ways that differ from adult presentations. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to helping young individuals manage symptoms and avoid long-term disruptions in academic, social, and emotional development. However, recognizing bipolar disorder in youth can be uniquely challenging due to overlapping symptoms with other childhood conditions and the natural emotional volatility of growing up.

Early signs of bipolar disorder

In children and teens, the symptoms of bipolar disorder may not follow the distinct pattern of separate manic and depressive episodes seen in adults. Instead, mood changes can be rapid and unpredictable, often shifting multiple times in a single day.

Common early signs include:

• Irritability rather than euphoria during manic phases (a child may appear angry or oppositional rather than excited) 
• Frequent mood swings that are more intense and long-lasting than typical childhood tantrums or moodiness 
• Impulsivity and risk-taking behavior that goes beyond age-appropriate limits 
• Periods of unusually high energy, racing thoughts, or grandiose thinking (e.g., a child believing they can fly or that they’re smarter than all their teachers) 
• Behavioral issues such as aggression, defiance, or sudden academic decline 
• Depressive symptoms like withdrawal, fatigue, sadness, or changes in appetite and sleep 

Diagnosing bipolar disorder in children

Diagnosing bipolar disorder in youth is particularly complex due to the symptom overlap with other common childhood conditions, especially attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and anxiety in teens. For instance, both bipolar disorder and ADHD can involve impulsivity, distractibility, and hyperactivity. However, bipolar-related impulsivity is often episodic and tied to mood changes, while ADHD symptoms are typically more consistent over time.

This diagnostic challenge makes a thorough psychological evaluation critical. A comprehensive assessment should include:

• A detailed clinical interview with the child and caregivers 
• Observation of behavior over time 
• Review of family history (as bipolar disorder often runs in families) 
• Collaboration with teachers or school counselors for insight into academic and social behavior 

Because misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis can lead to ineffective or even harmful treatment, it’s vital that evaluations be conducted by mental health professionals with experience in mood disorders in youth. Early intervention can significantly improve long-term outcomes, helping young people learn to manage their symptoms, succeed in school, and build healthy relationships.

Effective treatment for bipolar disorder typically involves a comprehensive, long-term approach that combines psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle management. Because bipolar disorder is a chronic condition marked by recurring episodes, ongoing care is essential for maintaining stability and improving quality of life.

Therapy options for bipolar disorder

Psychotherapy plays a critical role in helping individuals understand their condition, recognize early warning signs of mood episodes, and develop coping strategies.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and challenging distorted thought patterns that can exacerbate depressive or manic symptoms. It also helps individuals develop practical skills for managing stress and improving emotional regulation. 
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) incorporates mindfulness and distress tolerance techniques, which can be particularly useful during intense emotional episodes or mixed states. 
• Family therapy engages family members in treatment, providing education about the disorder and tools to improve communication and reduce conflict. This is especially valuable for adolescents or individuals living in high-stress households. 
• Psychoeducation teaches patients (and often their families) about the nature of bipolar disorder, the importance of medication adherence, and how to identify triggers that may lead to mood episodes. 

Medication for Bipolar Disorder

Medication is a cornerstone of bipolar disorder treatment and is usually necessary to stabilize mood and prevent relapse.

• Mood stabilizers like lithium or valproate help prevent extreme mood swings. 
• Antipsychotics are often used to manage symptoms of mania or psychosis. 
• Antidepressants may be prescribed during depressive episodes but must be used cautiously, as they can sometimes trigger mania. 

Close medical supervision is crucial to ensure effectiveness and to monitor for side effects, which can include weight gain, tremors, or gastrointestinal issues. Regular follow-ups and adjustments are often needed to find the most effective and tolerable medication regimen for each individual.

The idea that bipolar disorder and creativity are somehow connected has intrigued researchers, clinicians, and the public for decades. Throughout history, many brilliant and creative individuals have been retrospectively diagnosed or publicly acknowledged to have lived with bipolar disorder. Among them are Vincent van Gogh, Virginia Woolf, Carrie Fisher, and Demi Lovato—artists and thinkers whose intense emotional lives often paralleled their creative output.

Vincent van Gogh is perhaps the most iconic example. His bursts of artistic productivity—completing over 2,000 artworks in just over a decade—often coincided with periods of mania. Yet, these highs were frequently followed by debilitating depressive episodes. 

Similarly, author Virginia Woolf wrote candidly in her journals about her mental instability, oscillating between phases of extraordinary clarity and paralyzing despair. 

More recently, before her death, actress and writer Carrie Fisher became an outspoken mental health advocate, using her platform to destigmatize bipolar disorder while openly reflecting on her own challenges. And singer Demi Lovato has also shared her diagnosis publicly, crediting both therapy and self-expression through music as vital tools in her recovery journey.

Do creative traits run in families with mood disorders?

While many anecdotal accounts and public figures suggest a link between bipolar disorder and creativity, research offers some evidence to support this connection—though it remains complex. A 2005 study published in Psychiatry Research found that first-degree relatives of individuals with bipolar disorder not only exhibited higher rates of major depressive disorder but also reported significantly higher levels of creativity, suggesting a familial association between mood disorders and creative traits. Similarly, a 2007 study on personality and creativity found that individuals with elevated hypomanic traits—a hallmark of bipolar spectrum disorders—scored higher on measures of creativity and divergent thinking.

These findings align with earlier research, such as the 1987 study by Nancy Andreasen, which observed that creative writers and their first-degree relatives had elevated rates of affective disorders, particularly bipolar disorder. Collectively, these studies suggest that while not all creative individuals have bipolar disorder, certain emotional intensities and cognitive patterns associated with the condition may contribute to creative expression.

However, experts caution against romanticizing mental illness. While moments of hypomania may foster productivity or novel thinking, the disorder also comes with debilitating depression, impaired judgment, and risk of suicide. Reducing bipolar disorder to a “creative edge” can minimize the serious struggles individuals face and deter people from seeking necessary treatment.

Ultimately, celebrating the talents of those with bipolar disorder should never come at the expense of acknowledging their challenges. Creativity can coexist with mental illness, but it should not be seen as a justification for the pain it causes. Recognizing this balance is key to respectful, stigma-free awareness.

When someone you care about is living with bipolar disorder, it can be difficult to know how to help. The unpredictability of the condition and its many triggers, combined with the emotional intensity of both manic and depressive episodes, can leave loved ones feeling uncertain or overwhelmed. However, with empathy, education, and healthy communication, you can become an important source of support in their journey toward stability and well-being.

Practical ways to help a loved one with bipolar disorder

Listening without judgment is one of the most powerful things you can offer. People living with bipolar disorder often feel misunderstood, especially during extreme mood episodes. Validating their experiences—without minimizing or trying to fix them—can create a sense of safety and trust. For instance, if someone is in a depressive episode, phrases like “I’m here for you” or “I can’t imagine how hard this must be, but I’m listening” can be far more effective than attempts to offer solutions or rationalizations.

Encouraging treatment and therapy is another critical way to provide support. While you can’t force someone to seek help, you can gently express concern and offer to assist in practical ways, such as helping them find a therapist, accompanying them to therapy or medical appointments, or supporting medication adherence. When the individual is stable, it can also be helpful to discuss what kind of support they’d like if a mood episode occurs in the future.

Respecting boundaries is equally important. As much as you may want to be there all the time, respecting their need for space—especially during emotionally intense periods—shows that you trust their autonomy. It also protects your own mental health. Supporting someone with bipolar disorder doesn’t mean sacrificing your well-being; it’s about creating a sustainable, respectful relationship.

What not to say to someone with bipolar disorder

Knowing what not to say is just as important as knowing what to do. Avoid dismissive or stigmatizing comments, even if they’re well-intentioned. Statements like “Everyone gets sad sometimes,” “You’re overreacting,” or “Just calm down” can feel invalidating and may even discourage someone from opening up in the future. These types of remarks suggest that their condition is a matter of willpower rather than a legitimate medical diagnosis.

It’s also important to emphasize support over solutions. You might be tempted to offer advice like “Try exercising more” or “Maybe you just need to think more positively.” While healthy lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms, unsolicited advice during a mood episode can feel overwhelming or patronizing. Instead, focus on offering a steady, compassionate presence: “I’m here for you no matter what,” or “How can I best support you today?”

Ultimately, the most meaningful thing you can do is educate yourself about bipolar disorder and remain patient. Support isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being willing to stand beside someone through both the highs and lows. That consistent, nonjudgmental presence can be a vital anchor as they navigate the complexities of their mental health journey.

Daily habits to manage bipolar disorder

While medication and therapy are essential components of managing bipolar disorder, daily habits and self-care routines play a crucial role in maintaining long-term stability. Lifestyle choices may not replace clinical treatment, but they can significantly influence mood regulation, energy levels, and overall quality of life.

One of the most critical aspects of self-care is sleep hygiene. Irregular sleep patterns can be both a symptom and a trigger of mood episodes. For individuals with bipolar disorder, even one night of poor sleep can provoke hypomania or deepen depressive symptoms. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule—waking up and going to bed at the same time each day—is key. Limiting screen time before bed, creating a calm nighttime routine, and avoiding caffeine in the evening can support better sleep quality.

Nutrition also impacts mental health. A balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports brain function and overall well-being. Avoiding excessive sugar, caffeine, and alcohol is particularly important as these substances can exacerbate mood instability or interfere with medication.

Regular exercise is another powerful tool for mood regulation. Physical activity releases endorphins, reduces stress, and helps mitigate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Even moderate activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga can make a measurable difference in emotional balance.

Learning to identify and avoid triggers—such as high-stress environments, substance use, or major life disruptions—can also help prevent the onset of mood episodes. Keeping a record of patterns and potential triggers allows individuals to anticipate and manage shifts in mood more effectively.

Mood tracking apps

Technology can be a valuable ally in managing bipolar disorder. Mood tracking apps like Daylio and eMoods help individuals monitor emotional patterns, sleep, medication use, and activity levels. These tools can be especially useful when sharing data with a therapist or psychiatrist.

Journals and wellness planners also offer a structured way to reflect on emotional health, identify emerging symptoms, and celebrate progress. For those who struggle with consistency, digital or physical medication reminders—such as alarms or pill tracking apps—can support adherence to treatment plans.

When integrated into daily life, these habits and tools empower individuals with bipolar disorder to take a proactive role in their mental health and promote long-term stability and resilience.

Bipolar disorders and co-occurring conditions

It is common for individuals with bipolar disorder to experience additional mental health or behavioral conditions, known as co-occurring (or comorbid) disorders. These overlapping diagnoses can complicate the clinical picture, intensify symptoms, and make treatment more challenging. Recognizing and addressing these conditions is essential for providing effective, person-centered care.

Common conditions that occur with bipolar disorder

Many people with bipolar disorder live with one or more of the following co-occurring conditions:

• Anxiety Disorders – Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety are common. These conditions can heighten restlessness during manic episodes or deepen feelings of dread during depressive ones. 
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – Trauma histories may exacerbate emotional dysregulation, leading to increased mood instability or triggering episodes. 
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – Particularly common in children and teens with bipolar disorder, ADHD can complicate diagnosis due to overlapping symptoms like impulsivity and distractibility. 
• Eating Disorders – Disordered eating behaviors, including binge eating or restrictive eating, may occur alongside mood fluctuations and be influenced by body image issues or emotional regulation difficulties.
  

Substance Use Disorders – Many individuals use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate mood symptoms, which can worsen the course of bipolar disorder and interfere with treatment efficacy.

Despite advances in mental health awareness, bipolar disorder remains heavily stigmatized and widely misunderstood. Stigma not only isolates those living with the condition but also acts as a barrier to diagnosis, treatment, and long-term recovery. Breaking this stigma requires dismantling harmful myths, fostering empathy, and building a culture where mental health is treated with the same seriousness and compassion as physical health.

Misconceptions About Bipolar Disorder

Many of the misconceptions surrounding bipolar disorder are rooted in oversimplification and media stereotypes. These narratives often reduce a complex mental illness to a series of dramatic mood swings, fueling misunderstanding and prejudice. Three common myths are particularly damaging:

“It’s just being moody.”

Bipolar disorder is frequently dismissed as an exaggerated version of typical moodiness. In reality, mood episodes are clinically significant, long-lasting, and deeply impairing. They can disrupt family, friend, and romantic relationships, work, education, and overall functioning. Unlike ordinary emotional fluctuations, manic and depressive episodes often require medical intervention.

“Mania is fun or productive.”

While hypomania may temporarily bring feelings of increased energy or creativity, full-blown mania can be terrifying and dangerous. Individuals in a manic state may engage in impulsive or reckless behavior, experience delusions, and require hospitalization. To glamorize mania is to ignore the real suffering and risk involved.

“People with bipolar disorder can’t succeed.”

This damaging stereotype suggests that individuals with bipolar disorder are incapable of living stable, meaningful lives. In truth, many people with bipolar disorder are successful in their careers, relationships, and creative pursuits—particularly when they receive appropriate treatment and support. Public figures like Carrie Fisher and Demi Lovato have spoken openly about their diagnoses, helping to challenge this narrative and demonstrate that recovery and achievement are possible.

Ultimately, breaking the stigma means replacing fear and judgment with compassion and understanding. By challenging misconceptions and creating supportive systems, we move closer to a world where individuals with bipolar disorder are empowered, respected, and fully included in all aspects of society.

Recognizing when it’s time to seek professional support for bipolar disorder can be life-changing. Because symptoms often develop gradually and may be mistaken for stress, personality traits, or normal emotional fluctuations, many people delay getting the help they need. However, early intervention is one of the most effective ways to manage symptoms, prevent worsening episodes, and improve long-term outcomes.

If you or someone you care about is experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to speak with a mental health professional—especially if these signs are interfering with daily life, relationships, or personal safety:

• Sudden and intense mood swings that last for days or weeks 
• Periods of extremely high energy, racing thoughts, and little or no need for sleep 
• Impulsive or reckless behavior (e.g., excessive spending, risky sexual activity, quitting a job abruptly) 
• Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or prolonged sadness 
• Withdrawal from friends, family, or previously enjoyable activities 
• Difficulty concentrating, completing tasks, or maintaining responsibilities 
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide 
• Hearing or seeing things that others do not, or strongly believing in things that aren’t true
  

Bipolar disorder is a medical condition—not a personal failing. Getting professional help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a proactive step toward reclaiming control and building a healthier future.

Get support with Pacific Health Group

At Pacific Health Group, we understand that no two experiences with bipolar disorder are the same. That’s why we offer personalized, compassionate care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. We offer:

• Individual therapy
• Family therapy
• Therapy for teens (and their parents)
• Couples therapy

And more.

We also offer telehealth solutions to speak to your therapist via HIPAA complaint phone or video chats. We’re committed to empowering individuals with bipolar disorder to live stable, fulfilling lives through evidence-based treatment and consistent support.

If you’re ready to take the next step, contact Pacific Health Group by visiting www.mypacifichealth.com or calling 1-877-811-1217. Our team is here to help you or your loved one navigate bipolar disorder with clarity, compassion, and care—you don’t have to do it alone.