New NMHA Brochure Addresses Bipolar Disorder in African American Community

National Mental Health Association
Wednesday, 29 January 2003

African Americans With Bipolar Disorder Are Going Undiagnosed and Untreated

Although the rate of bipolar disorder is the same among African Americans as it is among other Americans, African Americans are less likely to receive diagnosis and treatment for this disorder. In response to this discouraging trend, the National Mental Health Association has created "'What is Bipolar Disorder?' A Guide to Hope and Recovery for African Americans."

"The African American community faces unique challenges in getting proper diagnoses and treatment for bipolar disorder," says Michael Faenza, president and CEO of NMHA. " The failure of the healthcare system to properly address the mental health needs of the African American community leads many to forego care."

In addition to information on signs, symptoms and treatment options, the brochure addresses barriers to treatment and recovery for African Americans with bipolar disorder. These barriers include the lack of cultural competency in physician settings, the stigma of mental illness and lack of available information for the African American community.

Bipolar disorder, also called manic-depressive illness, affects more than 2.5 million Americans. But its frequency may be much higher because almost 75 percent of cases go untreated. In fact, most people go to three or four doctors for more than eight years before they are correctly diagnosed.

Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme highs (mania) and lows (depression) in a person's mood and behavior. With proper treatment, people can control these mood swings and lead fulfilling lives. Left unchecked, bipolar disorder can lead to life-altering problems with substance abuse, finances, familial relationships, the criminal justice system and even suicide.

"'What is Bipolar Disorder?' A Guide to Hope and Recovery for African Americans" complements a new NMHA national public service announcement campaign on bipolar disorder. Copies of the brochure are available for download at www.nmha.org or by calling 800-969-NMHA (6642).

The National Mental Health Association is the country's oldest and largest nonprofit organization addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. With more than 340 affiliates nationwide, NMHA works to improve the mental health of all Americans through advocacy, education, research and service.

For more information, or to contact National Mental Health Association, see their website at: www.nmha.org