By Bob Sharpe

More than 54 million Americans are affected by mental illness each year, and approximately two-thirds of these people do not seek treatment due to stigma or a lack of available care. During May, advocates, organizations and communities across the nation are shining a spotlight on topics such as stigma and access to quality care in conjunction with Mental Health Month. The national observance was established in 1949 and strives to raise awareness of mental health conditions and mental wellness for all.

Here in Florida, advocates and experts have been working diligently to improve the quality of care available to our citizens and dispel myths about mental illness that lead to stigma. These myths include the ideas that people with mental illnesses have no hope, that they will never recover and that treatment is ineffective and a waste of time.

In February, the Florida Council for Community Mental Health and partner organizations hosted a science summit in Tallahassee to educate our state's leaders on recent, independent research that proves mental illnesses are brain disorders with biological origins that can successfully be treated. Topics such as the medical dynamics of mental illness and substance abuse, evidence-based care and the returns on investments both from a quality and cost standpoint of using proven treatments and services were discussed during the inaugural event. Additionally, members of the Florida Legislature and community had the opportunity to learn how the lack of adequate mental health programs affects other aspects of society, such as child abuse and neglect and veterans care, during this year's sixth annual Behavioral Health Day.

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. They are different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through from time to time. Bipolar disorder symptoms can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. But bipolar disorder can be treated, and people with this illness can lead full and productive lives.

Bipolar disorder often develops in a person's late teens or early adult years. At least half of all cases start before age 25.¹ Some people have their first symptoms during childhood, while others may develop symptoms late in life.

Bipolar disorder is not easy to spot when it starts. The symptoms may seem like separate problems, not recognized as parts of a larger problem. Some people suffer for years before they are properly diagnosed and treated. Like diabetes or heart disease, bipolar disorder is a long-term illness that must be carefully managed throughout a person's life.

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