Disclaimer: This article is based on research and insights from credible medical professionals, publications, and institutions. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Welcome to Ebony Emotions. Happy World Bipolar Day!

I’m so glad you’ve found your way here. This platform is dedicated to unpacking all things bipolar disorder—specifically through the lens of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, suspect you might be living with it, or are simply curious to learn more, you’re in the right place.

I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder II, and I know firsthand how confusing and isolating it can feel at first. Let’s change that, together.

When you hear the term bipolar disorder, what comes to mind?

For many, it’s the cliché of “mood swings.” But this condition is far more complex—and far more ancient—than most people realize.

Let’s dig deeper.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

According to Julie A. Fast and John Preston, authors of Take Charge of Bipolar Disorder, it’s a mood illness that impacts a person’s ability to regulate their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It alters brain chemistry, leading to mood shifts that often don’t match external events (Fast & Preston, 2023). More than just feeling up and down, bipolar disorder disrupts the way nerve cells communicate—especially those tied to emotional regulation. 

A Brief History

Bipolar disorder isn’t new. In fact, Hippocrates (circa 460–375 BCE) described symptoms of both melancholia (depression) and mania thousands of years ago. Until the early 1980s, it was commonly known as manic-depressive illness.

Today, it’s estimated that bipolar disorder affects 5 to 6 percent of the global population. While Ebony Emotions centers Black and Brown experiences, it’s important to recognize that bipolar disorder can affect anyone—regardless of race, income, gender, or background. 

Getting Properly Diagnosed (Especially as BIPOC)

For many BIPOC people, getting a proper diagnosis can be difficult—due to systemic issues like inadequate healthcare access, lack of insurance, financial barriers, or even provider bias.

Not every healthcare provider is trained to recognize bipolar disorder, especially in BIPOC individuals. That’s why it’s so important to seek out professionals with specific experience in diagnosing and treating bipolar disorder—and, ideally, someone who understands cultural nuance.

Fast and Preston note that many primary care physicians are under pressure to treat a range of brain-based disorders, which means misdiagnosis is common. Ask questions. Advocate for yourself. You deserve an accurate diagnosis and proper care.

What Doctors Should Look For

A proper evaluation should include your:

• Personal and family mental health history

• Substance use and major life changes

• Medical background

Some common signs that bipolar disorder might run in your family include:

• Hospitalizations for depression or nervous breakdowns (me)

• Multiple marriages

• Starting and abandoning business ventures (me)

• Periods of memory loss or unexplainable gaps in time

• Substance abuse (me)

• Moodiness or high anxiety (me)

• Suicide in the family

• Incarceration (also me—self-defense, I promise)

A correct diagnosis is the foundation of everything we’ll be discussing here at Ebony Emotions. I know that getting there looks different for everyone, but the truth is: the longer you go undiagnosed, the harder it can be to get the right help. In the U.S., many people with bipolar disorder go undiagnosed for five to ten years (Fast & Preston, 2023).

You’re Not Alone

Whether you’re newly diagnosed, seeking clarity, or just need a space that reflects your lived experience—this platform is for you. Each week, I’ll share insights, tools, and stories about bipolar disorder from the perspective of a Black woman navigating life with this condition.

You deserve understanding. You deserve proper treatment. And most of all—you got this.

Reference:

Fast, J. A., & Preston, J. (2023). Take Charge of Bipolar Disorder: A 4-Step Plan for You and Your Loved Ones to Manage the Illness and Create Lastin