TUESDAY, 26 May is National Bipolar Awareness Day.
This year’s theme calls attention to the importance of addressing bipolar health symptoms early, identifying the best treatment options and planning an appropriate course of action on a path towards better health.
“When we think about cancer, heart disease, or diabetes, we don’t wait years to treat them” said director of the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), Cassey Chambers.
“Like other diseases, mental health conditions should be treated long before they reach a critical point”.
Dealing with this illness is not easy for the patient or for their friends and family. Bipolar is marked by extreme manic highs and then followed by low depression episodes, but knowledge of the illness leads to acceptance.
“Support and understanding can prevent a lot of unnecessary pain and suffering for all concerned,” said Chambers.
SADAG will be hosting a free Bipolar Facebook Friday online chat ‘Living with Bipolar’ on Friday, 29 May at 1pm and 7pm with SA experts Dr Du Toit and Dr Miric answering questions on what medication people take and why, what treatment entails, how to help a loved one and self help tips.
“Bipolar patients, their loved ones and colleagues need to gain insight into this illness and start recognising patterns of behaviour and mood change,” said Dr Janet.
SADAG has a toll-free helpline 0800-21-22-23 to enable callers, to get helpful and expert advice, information and counselling. The line is open seven days a week from 8am and 8pm.
Visit the website for more information www.sadag.org
