The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) proudly joins the global community in observing World Bipolar Awareness Day, on Sunday, 30 March 2025, a day dedicated to outraising awareness about Bipolar Disorder, reducing stigma, and supporting those living with the condition.
Bipolar Disorder is a complex Mental Health condition, which affects about 1% of the population, characterised by extreme mood swings, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and very deep lows (Depression). These fluctuations can impact energy levels, cognitive function, relationships, and daily life. Despite its challenges and stigma, with proper treatment, support, and understanding, people with Bipolar Disorder can lead fulfilling and functional lives.
Bipolar Strong: Resilience and Strength
"For years, I hid my diagnosis, terrified of how society would judge me. The fear of being labelled ‘unstable’ or ‘broken’ kept me silent, struggling alone in the dark. But the moment I met others who shared their stories, I realised I wasn’t alone—I was part of a community that understood. Through their courage, I found my own. I learned to embrace my diagnosis, educate myself, and take control of my Mental Health. Starting a Support Group wasn’t just about helping others—it was about reclaiming my own power. Now, I advocate not just for myself, but for everyone who has ever felt unseen. And that has been the most fulfilling part of my journey." Mogamad Nackerdien, Support Group Leader and Lived Experience Advocate, shares his personal journey.
“World Bipolar Day is an opportunity to educate the public, challenge wrong ideas, and encourage open conversations about Mental Health. Many people with Bipolar Disorder face stigma and discrimination, which can prevent them from seeking help. We want to remind everyone – people living with Bipolar Disorder and their family members – there is support, they are not alone,” says SADAG Founder and Director, Zane Wilson.
“Stigma remains one of the biggest barriers for people living with Bipolar Disorder, especially in South Africa, where misconceptions, fear, and silence often prevent people from seeking the help they need. Many suffer in isolation, afraid of being judged or misunderstood, which can delay diagnosis and treatment,” says SADAG Board Member and Psychiatrist, Dr Mashadi Motlana.
Breaking the stigma starts with awareness - by sharing real stories, trusted resources, and open conversations, we can educate communities, challenge stereotypes, and create a society that supports rather than shames. This World Bipolar Day, SADAG is committed to shining a light on Mental Health, encouraging understanding, acceptance, and access to care. When we talk about Mental Health, we give more people the courage to seek help, find hope, and build resilience. No one should face Bipolar Disorder alone—help is available, and recovery is possible.
To mark World Bipolar Day, SADAG will host a free LIVE online "Ask the Expert" session offering valuable guidance, practical tips, and a platform for open discussion. Join Psychiatrist Alicia Porter, on Friday 4 April at 1pm to unpack more about navigating Bipolar Disorder in the Workplace. Join the LIVE online Q&A on our Facebook, Instagram and TikTok pages.
SADAG’s Support for People Living with Bipolar Disorder
SADAG provides crucial support and resources for people living with Bipolar Disorder, helping them to build contacts, find excellent treatment and share practical coping strategies. SADAG support services include:
▪ Toll-Free Helplines – SADAG operates 24-hour toll-free Helplines (0800 456 789 or 0800 567 567) offering free, confidential telephonic counselling and crisis intervention. Our trained counsellors provide guidance, coping strategies, and nationwide referrals to Mental Health professionals, resources and free Support Groups.
▪ Online and In-Person Support Groups – SADAG facilitates various FREE Bipolar Support Groups for people living with Bipolar Disorder, as well as families and caregivers, to provide ongoing support. They are a safe space for sharing experiences, gaining insights, and receiving emotional support.
▪ Free Online Support Services - a dedicated online webpage provides easy access to trusted resources, including downloadable brochures, expert videos, local and international articles, and self-help tools to better understand and manage Bipolar Disorder. Every week, SADAG hosts live online Q&A sessions with Mental Health experts, offering a safe space to ask questions and receive professional guidance. Visit www.sadag.org to explore our online resources.
How You Can Help People Living With Bipolar
1. Educate Yourself and Others – Learn about Bipolar Disorder and share accurate information to clarify myths and misinformation.
2. Show Compassion – Offer understanding and support to those living with Bipolar Disorder and their loved ones. Be mindful of the language we use when talking about Bipolar Disorder – instead of saying “She’s Bipolar”, rather say “She has Bipolar Disorder”
3. Share Stories – Use social media to share messages of hope and recovery, using the hashtags #WorldBipolarDay and #BipolarStrong. Follow SADAG on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and LinkedIn as we share helpful info every day.
4. Seek Help – If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to SADAG’s Helplines above for free telephonic counselling, resources, and referrals.
"Sharing our stories has the power to turn silence into strength and stigma into support. No one should have to face Bipolar Disorder alone—help is available, hope is real, and recovery is possible. If just one person feels seen, heard, and supported today, then we have already made a difference,” says Mo Nackerdien, SADAG Support Group Leader.
