Breaking down stigma
How Rotary clubs can support people affected by bipolar
Story by: Peter McLoughlin
Bipolar is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition yet it affects many, with 1 in 50 people estimated to be living with the condition in the UK.
However, it’s thought 56% of people living with bipolar are undiagnosed, and the average delay to diagnosis is estimated to be 9.5 years. Not having a diagnosis means someone isn’t getting the treatment and support for the condition that could help them live well.
One reason why diagnosis takes so long is that many people still don’t recognise the symptoms of bipolar.
Another barrier to diagnosis is stigma. Despite increased awareness about mental health, the fear of being judged and treated differently remains a key reason why people often don’t get the support they need.
As a national charity partner to Rotary in Great Britain & Ireland, Bipolar UK has been working with clubs across the UK to help dispel myths, and provide guidance on how members can support people affected by bipolar.
“Stigma often stems from a lack of knowledge about bipolar. Myths include the belief that people with bipolar are just moody, unreliable, or even dangerous.”
It is thought that over half of people living with bipolar haven’t actually received a diagnosis.
Stigma often stems from a lack of knowledge about bipolar. Myths include the belief that people with bipolar are just moody, unreliable, or even dangerous. These stereotypes are not only incorrect but harmful, as they contribute to the isolation and discrimination that many people with bipolar experience.
Sadly, stigma can lead to severe consequences, such as social withdrawal, lower self-esteem, and a reluctance to seek a diagnosis, treatment and support.
How Rotary clubs can help
Rotary clubs are uniquely positioned to make a significant impact in breaking down stigma around bipolar by talking about the condition in their communities and signposting to crucial support.
On World Bipolar Day this year (30 March) over 30 clubs across the UK engaged in awareness-raising activities, and we hope that many more clubs will join us in the years to come.
During Mental Health Awareness Week in May, events including the Haywards Heath Bike Ride and Family Fun Day in Chertsey were more great examples of collaborative events to increase understanding of bipolar.
Rotary clubs across the country have been promoting the partnership in their communities and signposting the support available..
DO:
Organise an activity in your community for next World Bipolar Day on 30th March 2025.
Promote Bipolar UK’s peer support services in your local community. Contact us at rotary@bipolaruk.org if you would like digital resources or leaflets.
Learn more about bipolar by taking Bipolar UK’s free, 20-minute eLearning course - and share this useful resource with others.
Signpost to Bipolar UK’s website for free digital resources that can help people find out if they have bipolar or help them manage the condition.
DON’T:
Use stigmatising language: Ensure that your club members and messages use respectful language- For example, it’s better to say someone ‘has or is living with bipolar’ rather than someone ‘is bipolar’ which defines them by it.
Minimise the severity of bipolar: Recognise that bipolar is a severe mental health condition defined by life-altering mood states far beyond a ‘normal’ range of feeling a little bit down or happy.
Assume that people with bipolar are always unwell: Bipolar is an episodic condition and many people live for months or years without episodes. Bipolar UK’s mission is to help people access treatment and support to reduce severe episodes and enable them to live well.
Forget to respect privacy: Protect the confidentiality of people who share their story with the club. Understand that everyone has the right to choose whether to talk or not talk about their condition publicly.
Through education, empathy, and community involvement, Rotary clubs can create an environment where people affected by bipolar feel valued and understood.
Our partnership is committed to fostering these positive changes and improving the lives of those living with bipolar. Together, we can make a significant difference.
Visit www.bipolaruk.org/rotary or contact us at rotary@bipolaruk.org to find out more.
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