The intrusive thoughts. The compulsions. The shame. The reality of living with OCD.
“It’s not about having all the answers. It’s about making you feel less alone.”
Rose Ellen Dix, one half of YouTube couple Rose & Rosie, is getting more personal than ever in RoseCD, a new podcast exploring her lifelong experience of living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Rose has lived with OCD throughout her life and was diagnosed aged 17. She is now exploring her experience of the condition in depth through RoseCD, sharing what it feels like to live with OCD in her own words, with honesty, humour and warmth. Now, in her first podcast dedicated entirely to her own experience, she is talking openly about the parts of OCD that are often misunderstood or left unsaid — from intrusive thoughts and compulsions to health anxiety, shame, perfectionism, panic spirals and the impact it can have on relationships.
RoseCD is a ten-episode first season .The podcast is entirely self-produced by Rose, with episodes based on her own lived experience rather than a clinical or expert perspective.
“I live with OCD. Not as an expert and not as a clinician. As someone who’s spent almost twenty years trying to understand their own brain. RoseCD isn’t about teaching people what OCD is. It’s about showing them what it feels like.”
“I wanted to make something that I would have wanted when I was younger — something that made me feel less weird, less ashamed and less alone,” says Rose. “OCD can make you think you’re the only person in the world having a particular thought. Sometimes just hearing someone else say, ‘I’ve thought that too,’ can make a huge difference.”
Rose says the aim is simple: to talk honestly about what OCD actually feels like from the inside, share what she has learned about living with it, and create a space where people can recognise thoughts they may have been too frightened, embarrassed or ashamed to say out loud.
RoseCD is available on Spotify and digital platforms. If you have been affected by anything discussed in this release, Samaritans are available free, day or night, on 116 123.
Living with bipolar 1 from the age of 16 meant living with deep depressions, of which suicidal thoughts were a part. Being able to safely share these with family and psychiatrists in the past saved my life and helped me hold on in the dark moments of bipolar episodes. I am not alone in feeling this way- millions are struggling now, today. Medication, therapy and support keep me well.
So today I read from my essay in this very special book to tell you- ‘You will feel the sun and smell the rain again, even after suicidal depressions when you lay in bed wanting to disappear. ‘
Please reach for help when you start getting these thoughts and hold on- a better day is coming. Helpline numbers includingSamaritans at 116 123 are available if you need to talk and feel in crisis.
I also know the devastation of losing a loved one to suicide and conversely, to help people through these thoughts. Their stories are not my own so I am not sharing them today but I hope that today and every day we focus on suicide prevention and support for all who are struggling.
Today’s blog is about a very special calming self care gift box – The Steady Box that was kindly sent to me by post to review from James Marchant at The Little Box of Mindfulness here in the UK.
I chose the Steady Box to review as someone who lives with an anxiety disorder at times and I wanted to see this self care box and how it can help calm anxiety by being mindful. The Steady Box is created for ‘people navigating anxiety, worry or emotionally overwhelming periods. A thoughtful gift designed to bring grounding, reassurance and gentle moments of calm.’. The Steady Box creates space for pause, presence and the feeling of being supported.
I opened the little black box and on the packaging it says ‘You are in someone’s mind this moment is yours‘. So already as you open it, you are feeling loved and welcomed. Each box also includes access to digital mindfulness practices, extending the feeling of care long after the gift is received. When you open the little box which is compact and fits through a letter box easily, you open to a winking face and a message- ‘You are not your thoughts, this moment is yours. Breathe. You’ve got this.‘ and some beautiful resources nestled within:
(image: The Little Box of Mindfulness)
A painted blue and cream handcrafted ceramic thumb stone (created by a local potter) to help with mindfulness and slow breathing when anxious. You hold it between your thumb and finger, focus mindfully on its texture and weight and then breathe slowly, returning to the present. The stone feels so calming and will make a lovely gift to a friend or loved one who needs to practise calming anxiety through mindfulness and breathing.
A Little Mindfulness box- a ‘Pause Pack’ containing items to help you ‘reconnect and reflect’, exploring at your own pace. These contain reflection cards with calming photos, affirmations about dealing with anxiety and lifes challenges( and finding strength and peace) and on the back, mindfulness prompts. They remind you to be in this moment, be still, breathe, name and ground yourself in the present;
There is also a leaflet teaching you how to ground yourself in the present (eg 5 things you can see, 4 things you can heal, 3 things you can hear) and a QR code for digital mindfulness resources that James has curated online.
Lastly, the box includes a Mindful Checklist card where you can tick off activities to help calm anxiety through mindfulness eg ‘I drank some water’, ‘I moved my body’, ‘I reminded myself I am safe’, I let go of one unhelpful thought’ , ‘I paused and noticed my breath.‘
(image: Little Box of Mindfulness)
This box retails at £15 and it makes the perfect letter box gift to send to a friend that needs to breathe, find a moment of peace to steady and ground themselves. I would recommend it as someone who lives with anxiety- I particularly liked the calming activity of slowing down and breathing with the thumbstone. As someone who has learnt a bit about how to practise mindfulness, I would say this box would be particularly useful at managing anxiety before it turns into a panic attack.
The Little Box of Mindfulness describes this as a’ refined letterbox gift for moments when words feel hard to find. A way to offer reassurance, presence and the quiet message that someone is thinking of them.‘. I would agree that it would make a lovely gift to send to reassure someone!
James Marchant, the founder and creator of the Little Box of Mindfulness, said to me, “I created these boxes with the simple hope of helping people feel remembered and supported during difficult moments, so it means a great deal to know the Steady Box resonated with you personally.” I truly love these products and the story behind them!
James created ‘The Little Box of Mindfulness’ due to his own battle with anxiety, stress and career burn out. He says, ” I’ve experienced anxiety in my own life and have seen first-hand how difficult moments can affect both individuals and families.The Little Box Of Mindfulness was created from a simple belief: when someone is struggling, small acts of kindness can make a real difference.Sometimes it’s hard to know what to say or how to help. My hope is that these letterbox gifts make it a little easier to reach out and remind someone they’re not alone.”
James’ story is so inspiring and I truly love these gift boxes and the concept. As well as the Steady Box there are two other boxes in the mindfulness range. They also sell beautiful self care mental health gift sets for thinking of you, bereavement, stress and burn out which are lovely and contain different treats. You can see all the mental health gift sets here: https://littleboxofmindfulness.co.uk/collections/mental-health-gift
Thank you James for gifting me this wonderful box to review!
(Image: Little Box of Mindfulness)
This article is a sponsored and gifted review. All thoughts on the product are my genuine review.
If you’ve ever tried to get mental health support, you’ll know that it can feel like watching a game of ping-pong. You call one service, and they refer you to another. They point you to a helpline, which suggests a group. And at the end of it all is the bottom of a waiting list.
There’s a big shortage of mental health support out there. Whether you’re one of the millions struggling with a severe mental health illness, or simply going through a difficult time in your life, it’s never been harder to find care.
It’s not good enough, and everyone deserves access to the support they need – whether that’s a therapist, a diagnosis, a helpline, a support group.
But the truth is that no service, however good, can give us everything we need, all of the time. The toughest moments in life don’t wait for a therapy appointment. There will always be moments where you’re on your own with it.
That gap is what I built Tough Minds for.
Tough Minds is a completely free, online toolkit to help you go from a difficult moment into a lighter one. There are breathing exercises, guided meditations, an urge-surfing timer, and calming soundscapes to help you relax or decompress.
These are exactly the sort of exercises that a therapist or counsellor might recommend you try – but the ones that are so hard to remember at 2am when you’re in a crisis, or when you’re trying to fight off a difficult urge, or when you just need five minutes to breathe before a job interview.
That’s why Tough Minds has no sign-up, no app to download, nothing to pay for, no ads. Whenever you need it, you can just go to Tough Minds.
(image: Mediensturmer: Unsplash)
Building emotional resilience
Those in-the-moment tools are only half of the reason I created Tough Minds. The other half is about building the underlying skills that can make those difficult moments less frequent and less severe.
We are less likely to be taught how to look after our mental health in school – and that’s a problem. We only ever learn how to look after our minds once we hit a crisis point – which is a bit like taking your first driving lesson when you’re already halfway round the M25 (UK motorway).
It doesn’t have to work that way.
Building Emotional Resilience
Tough Minds also has tools, games and exercises to help you build emotional resilience – the sort of skills you might learn in therapy. There are skills that help people manage emotionally difficult moments and even help with some mental illnesses. Skills like having a wide vocabulary for your own emotions, or knowing how to catch and reframe a spiralling thought before it takes hold.
These are skills like any other – they can be built so they’re there when you need them. That’s the part of Tough Minds I’m most excited to keep building: to improve and steady mental health.
None of this is about pretending that a website or an app can do the job of real support services, or the human-to-human support that so many of us benefit from.
However, what Tough Minds can do is help all of us take care of ourselves. Not instead of support, but around it: when you’re on a waiting list, the days between sessions, the stretch of life after a course of treatment ends, and for the times life is just a little hard.
If that sounds useful to you, you can find Tough Minds at toughminds.org. It’s free, and it’s there whenever you need it.
One year and a half after my bipolar 1 diagnosis and after a hospitalisation.
On holiday with friends in Spain and already on medication to stabilise my mental health. So many children now are on waiting lists for NHS CAMHS to even get to see a psychiatrist.
It is my hope and prayer that the government fund mental health services and improve access to healthcare. Or people will die from suicide or become hugely unwell.
I support the work of Mind and Rethink Mental Illness in highlighting and campaigning for this.
I was in the Priory North London adolescent unit in 2004 which was funded by the NHS and I had so much help after a mixed bipolar episode became psychosis. The psychiatrists were so caring.
We need more support for the next generation. Please to the UK government- fund CAMHS NHS services!
Bipolar disorder is often misunderstood as simply experiencing occasional mood swings. In reality, it is a complex mental health condition that exists on a spectrum, with several distinct types that affect individuals in different ways. Formerly known as manic depression, bipolar disorder involves extreme shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. These are not ordinary ups and downs—they are episodes that can last for days, weeks, or longer, and they can significantly disrupt a person’s life, relationships, and sense of self.
Understanding the different types of bipolar disorder is the first step toward recognition, appropriate treatment, and long-term stability. Whether you are seeking answers for yourself or a loved one, clarity about these diagnoses can open the door to compassionate care and effective support. This article explores the three primary types of bipolar disorder—Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and Cyclothymic Disorder—and highlights the importance of comprehensive recovery pathways.
Bipolar I Disorder
Bipolar I disorder is defined by the presence of at least one manic episode that lasts for at least seven days, or by manic symptoms so severe that immediate hospital care is required. Mania is more than just feeling unusually happy or energetic. During a manic episode, individuals may experience a distorted sense of well-being, racing thoughts, rapid speech, a decreased need for sleep, and impulsive or risky behaviors such as excessive spending or unwise decisions. In some cases, mania can cause a break from reality, known as psychosis.
Depressive episodes often accompany Bipolar I, typically lasting at least two weeks. These episodes can be profound and debilitating, involving deep sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep and appetite, and difficulty concentrating. The manic episodes of Bipolar I can be severe and even dangerous, making this form of the disorder particularly challenging for both the individual and their support network.
Bipolar II Disorder
Bipolar II disorder is sometimes mistakenly viewed as a milder version of Bipolar I, but it is a distinct diagnosis with its own set of challenges. It is characterised by at least one
major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode, but never a full manic episode. Hypomania is a less extreme form of mania that does not cause the same level of impairment in social or occupational functioning and does not involve psychosis.
While hypomanic episodes may feel productive or even pleasant, they are still part of a pattern that can be destabilizing. The depressive episodes in Bipolar II, however, can be lengthy and severe. In fact, individuals with Bipolar II often seek help during depressive phases and may be misdiagnosed with major depressive disorder if hypomanic episodes go unrecognized. This makes accurate diagnosis essential for effective treatment.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Cyclothymic disorder, or cyclothymia, is often described as a milder but more chronic form of bipolar disorder. It involves numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms that last for at least two years in adults (or one year in children and adolescents), but these symptoms do not meet the full criteria for a hypomanic or major depressive episode.
For someone with cyclothymia, mood instability is a constant presence. The mood swings occur for at least half of the time during the two-year period, with no more than two consecutive months of stable mood. As one psychiatrist describes it, “It may seem like you’re just going through a string of good days and a string of bad days. But the mood shifts keep going, and there’s little neutral time in between”. While the symptoms are less severe than in Bipolar I or II, the persistent nature of cyclothymia can still significantly impact relationships, work, and overall quality of life.
The Importance of Bipolar Disorder Rehabilitation
Receiving a diagnosis is an important milestone, but it is only the beginning of the journey. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing management. This is where bipolar disorder rehabilitation becomes essential. Rehabilitation goes beyond simply taking medication—it encompasses a holistic approach to rebuilding functioning, enhancing quality of life, and preventing relapse.
Evidence-based psychological interventions play a critical role in recovery. Approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) have shown promise in helping individuals develop emotional regulation skills, improve social functioning, and manage symptoms. Group-based programs and community re-entry initiatives can also support individuals in transitioning from inpatient settings to more independent living, enhancing medication adherence and global functioning.
Rehabilitation is not about “fixing” someone—it is about empowering individuals to live meaningful lives alongside their condition. With the right combination of medication, therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and social support, many people with bipolar disorder achieve stability and pursue their goals. The path may look different for everyone, but recovery is not only possible—it is the expectation.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the different types of bipolar disorder is vital for recognising the unique experiences of those affected. Bipolar I involves full manic episodes that can be severe and require hospitalisation. Bipolar II features hypomanic episodes alongside often-prolonged depression. Cyclothymic disorder is a chronic pattern of milder mood swings that persist over years. Each type requires a tailored approach to treatment and support.
If you or someone you love is navigating a bipolar disorder diagnosis, remember that you are not alone. Accurate diagnosis, compassionate care, and comprehensive rehabilitation can transform lives. Reach out to mental health professionals, build a support network, and take each step at your own pace. Understanding is the foundation—and from there, healing can begin.
Anxiety can make ordinary moments feel crowded: a tight chest before a meeting, a loop of worst-case thoughts at night, or a restless sense that something is wrong even when you are safe. Calming anxiety is not about forcing yourself to be endlessly positive. It is about teaching your body and mind how to return to steadiness, one repeatable practice at a time. If you are building a gentler relationship with your inner world, Mind Voyage can be a helpful place to continue that journey.
The National Institute of Mental Health describes anxiety disorders as conditions that can involve excessive fear, worry, avoidance, muscle tension, sleep disruption, and difficulty functioning. That matters because real anxiety deserves real tools, not shame. The seven techniques below are practical, evidence-informed ways to lower the intensity of anxiety and rebuild a sense of control.
1. Breathe Out Longer Than You Breathe In
When anxiety rises, the body often shifts into a threat response: breathing becomes shallow, the heart speeds up, and attention narrows. A simple way to interrupt that spiral is to lengthen the exhale. Try inhaling through the nose for four counts, then exhaling slowly for six counts. Repeat for three to five minutes. The long exhale encourages the parasympathetic nervous system, the branch associated with recovery and calm. Do not worry about doing it perfectly. The goal is not a dramatic transformation in one breath; it is a steady signal of safety repeated until the body begins to listen.
2. Name the Thought, Then Test It
Anxious thoughts sound convincing because they arrive with physical urgency. Instead of arguing with them blindly, write the thought down in one sentence: “I will fail,” “Something bad will happen,” or “I cannot handle this.” Then ask three questions: What evidence supports this? What evidence weakens it? What is a more balanced version? This technique, drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy, helps create distance between you and the fear. You are not denying risk; you are refusing to let anxiety act as the only narrator.
3. Use the 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Method
Grounding is especially useful when your mind is racing into the future. Pause and name five things you can see, four things you can feel, three sounds you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. Speak them slowly, even if only in your head. This method works by bringing attention back to the present moment through the senses. Anxiety feeds on imagined outcomes. Grounding reminds the nervous system that, right now, you are here.
4. Relax Your Muscles on Purpose
Many people try to calm the mind while the body remains braced. Progressive muscle relaxation reverses that pattern. Starting with your feet, gently tense one muscle group for five seconds, then release for ten seconds. Move upward through the calves, thighs, stomach, shoulders, hands, jaw, and forehead. Notice the difference between tension and release. This practice trains body awareness and can be especially helpful before sleep, after conflict, or during periods of constant pressure.
5. Move Before Anxiety Talks You Out of It
Exercise does not have to be intense to be therapeutic. A brisk walk, gentle yoga, cycling, dancing, or a short strength session can reduce anxious arousal and improve mood. Movement helps metabolize stress chemicals, improves sleep quality, and gives the mind a concrete task. When anxiety says, “I cannot do anything,” make the action smaller: put on shoes, step outside, walk for five minutes. Momentum often returns after the first move, not before it.
6. Reduce Stimulants and Protect Sleep
Anxiety is easier to manage when your body is not running on caffeine, poor sleep, skipped meals, and constant alerts. Try limiting caffeine after late morning, eating regularly, reducing alcohol when anxiety is high, and creating a 30-minute wind-down routine before bed. Put your phone away, dim the lights, and repeat the same calming sequence each night. These basics can sound too simple, but they create the biological conditions that make every other technique more effective.
7. Take Small Steps Toward What You Avoid
Avoidance gives quick relief, which is why it becomes so powerful. The problem is that it also teaches the brain that the avoided situation is dangerous. Choose one small, safe step toward what anxiety wants you to escape: send the message, make the call, sit in the room for two more minutes, or practice the conversation once. Repeat the step until it feels less charged, then move slightly further. Confidence grows through evidence, and evidence comes from action.
Peace of mind is not a permanent state where anxious thoughts never appear. It is the ability to notice fear, steady your body, question the story, and take the next kind step. Start with one technique today and practice it long enough for your nervous system to recognise it. Calm is not a personality trait reserved for a lucky few; it is a skill you can rebuild with patience, repetition, and support.
Today a wonderful email from Christina at Vuelio here in the UK dropped in my inbox, to say that Be Ur Own Light is a Top 10 UK Mental Health Blog for 2026 (and has been every year since 2018!). I am really not good at blowing my own trumpet but am so proud of this achievement and know that it is a true blessing. Click here to see the full list: https://www.vuelio.com/uk/social-media-index/mental-health-blogs-uk-top-10/
As well as working with some incredible people, brands and collaborators, I am proud of myself for showing up consistently for 10 years to talk about mental health online here and on our social media. The blog has published over 800 posts and has reached so many and I am forever grateful to our readers.
Thank you Vuelio for listing us at No 7 among really fantastic bloggers and blogs (shout out to you all!)
I often get imposter syndrome so will just say thank you to Vuelio and I hope this blog will continue to share about mental health, wellness, bipolar, life and everything in between- and reach even wider audiences online.
Stress, anxiety, poor sleep, and low energy have become unwelcome constants for millions of people navigating modern life. While therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes play important roles in mental wellness, an ancient practice is gaining renewed attention for its profound psychological benefits: regular sauna bathing.
Across generations and civilisations, people have turned to heat-based bathing practices as a natural method to unwind, refresh the body, and regain a sense of equilibrium. Today, modern research is validating what traditional wisdom has long known: consistent sauna use offers measurable improvements in mental health, from better sleep and reduced stress to enhanced mood and emotional resilience.
The Science Behind Sauna and Mental Wellness
As internal temperature rises, the pulse quickens, circulation expands through relaxed blood vessels, and the brain releases helpful chemical messengers that support mood regulation and mental focus.
Research highlighted in the International Journal of Circumpolar Health suggests that regular sauna use is linked to enhanced overall wellness. Regular sauna enthusiasts often discover a surprising boost in overall wellbeing: they drift into deeper sleep, carry more energy throughout the day, and experience sharper mental clarity and a stronger sense of physical health. These are some advantages that are rarely seen in those who skip the sauna experience.
The mechanism involves multiple pathways. Heat exposure stimulates endorphin release — natural mood-elevating chemicals that create feelings of well-being. Simultaneously, cortisol levels decrease, reducing the stress hormone that contributes to anxiety. Blood flow to the brain increases, promoting mental clarity and calm.
Better Sleep Through Heat Therapy
One of the most immediate mental health benefits people notice from regular sauna use is improved sleep quality. The connection involves the body’s natural temperature regulation.
How sauna improves sleep:
Core temperature rises during the session, then gradually drops afterward, mimicking natural sleep preparation signals
The relaxation response triggered by heat reduces nighttime anxiety
Regular use helps establish consistent circadian rhythms over time
Deep sleep duration increases measurably the same night after sessions
The relaxation extends beyond physical comfort into psychological calm, making it easier to quiet racing thoughts that interfere with falling asleep.
Mood Enhancement and Stress Reduction
The mood-boosting effects of sauna bathing are among its most valued mental health benefits.
The neurochemical changes explain much of this effect. Spending time in a sauna sparks the brain to generate more serotonin and dopamine, boosting feelings of happiness and helping keep emotions steady. These same chemicals are targeted by many antidepressant medications, suggesting regular heat exposure may offer complementary benefits for mood disorders.
Stress reduction occurs through multiple mechanisms. The quiet, meditative environment provides a natural break from daily pressures. The physical sensations of warmth and sweating create a mindfulness experience that anchors awareness in the present moment. Cortisol levels drop during and after sessions, providing relief from chronic stress.
Interestingly, research indicates that using a sauna one to four times monthly appears optimal for happiness, with more frequent use not necessarily providing additional mood benefits. This suggests moderate, consistent use may be more valuable than intensive bathing schedules.
Social Connection and Ritual
Sauna culture delivers mental health benefits beyond physiology through connection and ritual. In many cultures, sauna bathing is inherently communal. People gather, talk, and strengthen bonds in a naturally relaxed setting.
Shared rituals and synchronized activities can strengthen a sense of community, which in turn supports overall mental well-being. Loneliness fuels depression and anxiety, while social bonds protect against them. Regular sauna sessions create wellness rituals that signal relaxation time, establishing clear boundaries between daily stress and intentional recovery.
Long-Term Mental Health Protection
(Image: Unsplash, Real Therapy)
In addition to its instant effects, making sauna sessions a regular habit can help strengthen mental wellness over time. Frequent sessions may help protect the mind, promoting clearer thinking, emotional balance, and overall cognitive health.
The warming experience of a sauna encourages healthy circulation and can have lasting positive effects on brain function, making it a proactive way to nurture mental resilience rather than just a way to unwind in the moment.
Over time, this consistent practice can enhance overall mood and reduce feelings of stress. It also provides a dedicated space for relaxation, helping the mind reset and recharge regularly.
Practical Guidelines for Mental Health Benefits
To maximize mental health benefits, consistency matters more than intensity. Spending 15–20 minutes in a sauna, 3-7 times a week, tends to offer the greatest benefits, but even occasional use can still have a positive impact.
Start gradually with 5-10 minute sessions at lower temperatures if new to sauna bathing. Listen to body signals. Dizziness, nausea, or excessive discomfort indicate it’s time to exit. Keep your body refreshed by sipping water throughout your sauna experience — before you enter, while inside, and afterward — to help ward off tiredness and headaches.
Create a mindful experience by leaving devices outside, focusing on breathing, and allowing thoughts to settle naturally. Consider timing your sauna sessions strategically. Evening sessions may enhance sleep, while earlier sessions might provide energy and mood boosts. Experiment to discover what works best for individual schedules.
Safety and Integration
While sauna bathing is generally safe, pregnant women, individuals with cardiovascular conditions, and those taking medications that affect temperature regulation should consult a healthcare provider beforehand. Exit immediately if you experience severe dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Sauna sessions are unsafe if you’re impaired by alcohol or any substances. Always enjoy the heat with a clear and sober mind.
Regular sauna bathing complements other mental health strategies rather than replacing them. It works synergistically with exercise, therapy, meditation, and adequate sleep to create comprehensive wellness support.
For individuals managing anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, regular sauna sessions provide an easy and approachable way to practice self-care, delivering soothing effects in the moment and fostering lasting benefits with continued use.
The age-old practice of heat bathing remains valuable for supporting mental well-being today. By influencing mood and emotional balance, regular sauna use provides a natural and accessible way to enhance overall mental health.
Author Bio
John is the YouTube lead and resident sauna enthusiast at SaunaHeaters.com. He creates educational videos and written guides covering sauna health benefits, proper installation, ventilation, and best practices. His goal is to make sauna ownership simple, safe, and approachable through clear, practical guidance.
Data from NHS England Digital’s latest Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey (APMS) has been analysed by national mental health charity Bipolar UK, revealing that the current system is failing to meet the needs of people living with bipolar.
The findings show that people who tested positive for probable bipolar have experienced a disproportionate rise in unemployment over the past decade, increasing from 3.9% in 2014 to 9% in 2024.
The APMS is a national survey that measures the prevalence of mental health conditions, tracks trends over time and assesses access to treatment. As part of the survey, the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) was used to screen for probable cases of bipolar.
It is estimated that over a million people in the UK live with bipolar, and many manage the condition well. However, employment rates among people with bipolar remain significantly lower than the average employment rate of 75%* in the general population.
(Image: Annie Spratt: Unsplash)
Bipolar UK believes that widespread underdiagnosis and inadequate access to specialist treatment may be contributing to rising unemployment and widening inequalities for those who tested positive for probable bipolar.
The data shows that only 17.8% of people who tested positive have received a professional diagnosis. This points to significant underdiagnosis. Among those who do have a diagnosis, the use of bipolar specific medication has also fallen, decreasing from 14.5% to 5.1%.
Speaking about the APMS findings, CEO of Bipolar UK, Simon Kitchen, said: “This is the first time this survey has been conducted since 2014, and while the rise in unemployment among people living with bipolar is deeply concerning, it points to a much bigger failure in the system.
“Fewer than one in five people who tested positive for probable bipolar have received a professional diagnosis. Without this, people are far less likely to access the specialist treatment and support that helps them stay well. This can have serious consequences for every part of their lives, including their ability to work.
“We regularly hear from people who are struggling at work or falling out of employment altogether, not because they can’t or don’t want to work, but because the right care isn’t in place. Delays to diagnosis leave people managing severe symptoms alone, often for years.
“For those who do have a diagnosis, a lack of understanding about bipolar in the workplace can add further barriers. Despite protections under the Equality Act, many people tell us they fear stigma or negative consequences if they talk about their condition, and that reasonable adjustments are not always offered or understood.
“This data challenges the misconception that people with bipolar are unable to work. The real issue is a system that diagnoses too late and fails to provide consistent, specialist support. That failure is potentially pushing people out of work who could otherwise live well and fulfil their potential.”
There are several reasonable adjustments that can help people with bipolar better able to manage in the workplace. Many of these are neither expensive nor difficult to implement, such as flexible working arrangements, time off for medical appointments, and support plans following episodes of illness.
Simon Kitchen added: “The benefits of empowering people with bipolar are enormous, for individuals, their families, employers, the NHS and the wider economy. The charity has worked with, and continues to support, thousands of people with bipolar who are working successfully across a wide range of sectors.
“Improving diagnosis rates and building bipolar friendly workplaces benefits everyone.”
Bipolar UK’s current campaign, Maybe it’s bipolar?, aims to raise awareness of some of the common symptoms of bipolar and encourage people who recognise them to explore this further. The campaign directs individuals to take the MDQ and, where they receive a positive result, provides clear, trusted information to help them seek appropriate support.
Ultimately, the campaign aims to reduce the average 9.5 year delay to diagnosis and ensure people affected by bipolar are identified earlier and can access the specialist care and support they need to live and work well.
Bipolar UK also runs workplace training courses for organisations looking to improve their understanding of bipolar and how to support colleagues living with the condition.
Key stats about bipolar:
Over 1 million people in the UK live with bipolar, making it the most common severe mental illness
People wait 9.5 years on average for a diagnosis
Life expectancy is up to 20 years shorter
50% of people with bipolar will attempt suicide at least once, 1 in 5 die by suicide
Despite global suicide rates falling, those related to bipolar have not declined
About Bipolar UK – the only national charity dedicated to supporting people affected by bipolar.
Bipolar UK provides a range of services, including information and advice, a network of support groups, an online Community, workplace training and telephone and email peer support. Bipolar UK also works in partnership with research organisations, and campaigns for change to build a better world for everyone affected by bipolar. For more information, visit bipolaruk.org.
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