Your stories

Welcome to a space for the real voices of people living with bipolar and their family and friends. Here you’ll find personal experiences of diagnosis, stigma and the challenges of bipolar alongside uplifting accounts of resilience and recovery. Every story is a reminder that no one is alone.

Please note: People may share personal views about living with bipolar that you might not agree with and that do not represent the opinions of Bipolar UK. Every experience is unique, and we aim to provide space for all voices.

'I call my meds my vitality supplements'

Jody, 52, explains why taking her meds everyday helps her to be the best version of herself for her family.

'I am a good example of someone living well with cyclothymia'

Philip, 68, describes how he manages life with cyclothymia, including going to monthly peer support group meetings.

‘I’d never considered myself as someone with mental ill-health’

In spite of the many challenges of his bipolar condition, Mark, 50, is using his lived experiences to create positive change.

'My local support group was my saving grace'

George, 45, explains how medication, peer support and lifestyle have helped him to manage his bipolar for over 25 years.

‘A diagnosis of bipolar inspired me to create an app’

Andrew Thompson, 57, explains why a diagnosis of bipolar inspired him to develop Bipolar UK’s award-winning Mood Tracker app.

‘I'd go from being extremely happy, only to wake feeling lost’

Johno, a military veteran, shares his challenging journey of living with bipolar disorder and PTSD.

'The Mood Tracker app helps me avoid festive burnout’

James, 34, who was diagnosed with bipolar in 2023, explains how tracking his mood helps him to avoid festive burnout.

‘I was dreading my first Christmas without mum’

Caroline, 35, shares how a Bipolar UK support group was a lifeline after her mum died and what she’s learned about managing stress over the festive season.

‘I had bipolar symptoms for nine confusing years’

Becca, 28, shares memories of what it was like living with undiagnosed symptoms of bipolar disorder for nine years – and why getting a diagnosis has been life-changing.