Mental health awareness is on the rise as more and more people talk openly about their experiences with mental health.
While this is a step in the right direction, struggling with mental health – or worrying about a loved one – can still feel overwhelming.
As well as our GPs, there are a range of help available from specialist charities. Here, we share the most common mental health conditions and the best support available.
Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder in which sufferers experience extreme highs and lows.
Bipolar disorder is the fourth most common mental health problem globally after depression, anxiety and schizophrenia, with statistics showing that one in 100 people will be diagnosed with the disorder at some point in their lives.
Whilst all of us experience different moods, for those with bipolar disorder, these changes can be very distressing and have a significant impact on their lives.
High or “manic” periods may include feelings of euphoria, excitement, overconfidence, ambition, or a sense of adventure and invincibility, but they may also include feelings of not wanting to eat or sleep.
Meanwhile, low periods are usually characterised by depressive symptoms.
Where to get help for bipolar disorder
Contact your GP for a referral to NHS mental health services
You can visit the specialist charity Bipolaruk for information and peer support, either on a one-to-one basis or in a group setting.
The charity Rethink also helps people seriously affected by mental illness through a network of local groups and a counselling helpline