03/30/2026
Did you know that March 30th is Vincent Van Gogh’s birthday?👨🎨 🎨✨
It’s also World Bipolar Day. It’s no coincidence that we celebrate on the birthday of one of history’s most brilliant minds; one that many suspect may have "met criteria" for a bipolar or related diagnosis today.
Bipolar disorder impacts an estimated 37 million people worldwide. And while it’s often associated with incredible creativity and a unique way of seeing the beauty in the world, we also know it can feel like an exhausting rollercoaster for those living through it and those who love them.
If you’ve ever been confused by the difference between Bipolar I and Bipolar II, you aren’t alone. Even for the pros, the nuances of mania vs. hypomania and other BP-related symptoms can be a lot to tease out.
🔹 Bipolar I: Defined primarily by manic episodes (think: high energy, racing thoughts, and sometimes a bit more risk than our bank accounts or safety would prefer). Typically symptoms are more acutely disruptive when they occur.
🔹 Bipolar II: A mix of depressive episodes and hypomania (a less intense "high" that doesn't usually lead to hospitalization but still feels distinct from your baseline). BP-II as a diagnosis is often mischaracterized as "less severe" - largely because it may not lead to hospitalization - but the "rhythm" and baseline impact of symptoms can cause deep distress and broad impairment.
Treatment isn't "one size fits all." It’s often a jigsaw puzzle of medication, therapy, and, unfortunately for many, a lot of patience. If you’re currently in the middle of a "mood swing" or trying to support someone who is, give yourself some grace. You’re navigating the 6th leading cause of disability worldwide; it’s not uncommon to not have it all figured out immediately.
At Redfish, we’re here to help people navigating BP and related concerns find the right fit for your specific brain.
🔗 Read the full deep-dive by Sydney Elder, LCMHCA, at the link in our bio.
[www.redfishcounseling.com/post/world-biopolar-day]
