Of the estimated 1 percent of the world's population stricken with
bipolar disorder, most remain significantly disabled throughout adulthood.
Given the continuing difficulties in getting treatment and other assistance
for people with bipolar disorder, the persistent misunderstandings about
bipolar in the general public, and the often cruel and unusual injustices
that befall them - people with bipolar disorder need as much assistance
as you can give.
Perhaps the most tireless example of advocacy for the mentally ill
was demonstrated by Dorothea
Dix, who (for over 30 years) visited jails and workhouses to identify
the mentally ill and get them improved treatment, and testified before
state legislatures persistently and tirelessly to get them to build
additional state hospitals so that the mentally ill could be treated
better. Sadly, thing seem to have regressed in some ways since the late
1800s - we again (in the US) have more mentally ill in jails than in
psychiatric hospitals.
Following is a short list of writings and audio recordings that outline
some of the key issues facing people with bipolar disorder - and how
you might help resolve them. We encourage you to join in the battle
against this devastating disease and the continuing injustices forced
upon the people who suffer from it.
Advocacy groups to work with:
In the USA:
In Canada
In the UK
