This series of webinars explores the bipolar symptoms that no-one talks about. In this webinar, Dr Thomas Richardson examines a common symptom of hypomania and mania: impulsive spending. Joined by April Kelley, who lives with bipolar, and Leah Milner, an award winning journalist who lives with bipolar, they discuss the link between overspending and bipolar, the unhelpful spiral it can trigger and helpful ways to prevent it.

About the speakers

Dr Thomas Richardson

Dr Thomas Richardson is a clinical psychologist working as Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology within the School of Psychology, University of Southampton. Thomas leads teaching about 'CBT' for bipolar disorder on the CBT diploma and is actively involved in various research projects around bipolar. Prior to this he worked for eight years as a clinical psychologist in a community mental health team for adults within the NHS. Dr Richardson also has lived experience of bipolar.

April Kelley

April Kelley is an award-winning actor, producer and the co-owner of Mini Productions. At the start of 2021, she wrote and produced two films tackling the topics of bipolar disorder, mental health and suicide. Mini Productions collaborated with the Film and TV Charity on both these projects and became the first company (and productions) to pilot their ‘tool kit’ for mentally healthy productions. A huge chunk of April’s proudest work has been in her role as a Bipolar UK ambassador. After finally being diagnosed at the age of 28, she found a voice by working with the charity. She says her mission is to bring comfort to others living with what she calls ‘this tricky superpower’.

Leah Milner

Leah Milner is an award-winning consumer, money and property journalist who is currently acting editor of The Sun’s Saturday and Sunday money pages. Leah lives with bipolar. Twitter: @leahmilner

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Last updated: 21 November 2023