Yolanda Mzimela
30 March 2026
Mental health specialists are urging the public to correct widespread misconceptions about bipolar disorder as World Bipolar Awareness Day is observed globally on 30 March. The appeal comes amid renewed attention to the condition, which affects millions worldwide.
Psychiatrist Dr. Frans Korb emphasised that the term “bipolar” is frequently misused in everyday language and media, often inaccurately applied to ordinary mood fluctuations. He noted that bipolar disorder is a medical psychiatric condition characterised by intense, long-lasting manic and depressive episodes, not typical emotional shifts.
Correcting Common Myths
Dr. Korb addressed several persistent myths:
Myth: People with bipolar disorder cannot lead successful or fulfilling lives.
He stated that with proper treatment – including medication and therapy – individuals can manage symptoms effectively and live stable, productive lives. Recent scientific advances continue to improve treatment options; researchers have even mapped the structure of key medications at a molecular level to support better therapeutic development.
Myth: Bipolar medications change a person’s personality.
Dr. Korb explained that bipolar disorder stems from brain chemistry and does not alter an individual’s core character. Medication helps regulate extreme mood episodes, allowing individuals to return to their usual functioning.
Myth: Bipolar disorder is a character flaw.
He noted that the condition is not the result of personal weakness. Stress may trigger episodes, but bipolar disorder is fundamentally a chemical imbalance that cannot be overcome through willpower alone. Psychological support can help individuals process the impact of manic or depressive episodes.
Myth: Patients can stop medication when they feel better.
According to Dr. Korb, bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, and discontinuing medication often leads to relapse. Treatment plans may require adjustments over time, but stopping medication without medical supervision poses significant risks.
Continued Need for Awareness
Experts estimate that 2–3% of the population is affected by bipolar disorder, highlighting the importance of public education and early detection. Ongoing research, including new clinical trials aimed at earlier identification and improved treatments, continues to advance understanding of the condition.
Dr. Korb encouraged anyone who suspects they may have bipolar disorder to seek a professional assessment for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care. He emphasised that reducing stigma depends on spreading accurate information and challenging misconceptions that persist in public discourse.
