Bipolar disorder is a common mental health condition affecting approximately 2.8 percent of US adults, as reported by the National Institute of Mental Health. Despite its prevalence, there is still a significant stigma surrounding this disorder. To combat this stigma, many celebrities have chosen to speak openly about their experiences with bipolar disorder.
According to Mayo Clinic, bipolar disorder is characterized by alternating emotional highs (manic or hypomanic episodes) and lows (depressive episodes). These extreme mood swings can disrupt a person’s life, leading to behaviors like reckless actions during mania or isolation during depression. There are two recognized forms of bipolar disorder: bipolar I and bipolar II. Bipolar I includes at least one manic episode, while bipolar II involves depressive and hypomanic episodes without full mania.
Celebrities like Demi Lovato, Mariah Carey, and Selena Gomez have used their platforms to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding bipolar disorder. Selena Gomez, for instance, revealed her bipolar diagnosis during an Instagram Live conversation with Miley Cyrus. She expressed relief in receiving her diagnosis, as it helped her better understand and manage her condition.
Mariah Carey also shared her struggles with bipolar II disorder in a PEOPLE cover story, emphasizing the importance of seeking treatment and surrounding oneself with positive support. Other celebrities, like Chappell Roan, have been open about their bipolar II diagnosis, highlighting the daily challenges and importance of mental health discussions.
Demi Lovato has been vocal about living with bipolar disorder since they were 18 years old, alongside battling issues like eating disorders. Despite facing setbacks, including a drug overdose in 2018, Lovato encourages others to seek help and discuss mental health openly.
The late Carrie Fisher, known for her advocacy and writing about bipolar disorder, urged individuals with the same diagnosis to connect with others facing similar challenges. Similarly, David Harbour, star of Stranger Things, shared his bipolar diagnosis after experiencing a manic episode at 25, emphasizing the importance of medication and awareness of personal triggers.
By sharing their stories and experiences, these celebrities are helping to reshape the narrative around bipolar disorder, promoting the idea that it is a treatable mental health condition that should not be stigmatized.
