World Bipolar Day
What is World Bipolar Day?
World Bipolar Day raises awareness of this mental health problem that affects approximately 46 million people worldwide. It brings together organisations and individuals across the world to collaborate, connect and raise funds while reducing the stigma attached to the disorder.
World Bipolar Day is marked globally on the 30th of March each year, the birthday of Vincent Van Gogh, who was posthumously diagnosed as having bipolar disorder.
How is World Bipolar Day Celebrated?
Every year, events take place around the world to both fundraise for charities who focus on bipolar, as well as raising awareness, educating the public and changing the stigma.
Social media campaigns will take place and organisations will hold events, webinars and learning sessions.
World Bipolar Day and Employment
People with Bipolar disorder may experience severe symptoms and have episodes of mania and depression. This can affect work life and relationships. It is important for employers to create a workplace that supports mental health, which can be done by:
- Creating awareness by sharing resources and information
- Providing mental health awareness training for all employees
- Putting clear practices in place, including routes to support and EAP details
- Instilling confidence in employees by starting conversations and reassuring confidentiality
- Training mental health first aiders
- Ensuring policies are inclusive
- Adopting a flexible approach to adjustments
