South Africa tackles Bipolar disorder through awareness creation

South Africa tackles Bipolar disorder through awareness creation
Funke Atohengbe, Pretoria

South Africa is one of the countries with high incidence of Bipolar disorder, a condition characterized by mood swings and depression which can harm the brain if not properly taken care of.

As part of activities marking the “Bipolar Awareness Day”, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group is hosting various programmes across the country to raise the level of awareness on Bipolar disorder in humans.

In the following report, VON Southern Africa Correspondent Funke Atohengbe examines the danger inherent in the disease:

Bipolar is a brain disorder that strikes early and can cause life-long disability. A research by the US government suggests 2.4 percent of the world’s population may have some form of the disease which is marked by bizarre shifts in mood, energy and activity that can affect relationships and job performance.

In South Africa, over 450,000 people are said to be suffering from Bipolar disorders and this is made worse if not properly treated.

The operations director of the South African Depression and Anxiety group, Casi Chamber said, once detected, the patient should quickly seek help.

Dr Chamber says the number of people suffering from Bipolar disorder is made worse in rural areas due to lack of awareness.

So if you usually experience intense emotional states that occur in distinct periods called mood episodes, overtly joyful or over excited state, extremely sad or hopeless state for at least one or two weeks, then you need help.

Scientists say proper diagnosis and treatment help people with Bipolar disorder live healthy and productive lives.

In most cases, treatment can help reduce the frequency and severity of the attack.

Ekata