Date	29.03.2022
Department	Faculty of Nursing
SDG

WORLD BIPOLAR DAY March 30, the birthday of Vincent Van Gogh, who was diagnosed with bipolar disorder after his death, is celebrated all over the world and in Turkey as a day to raise awareness about bipolar disorder, raise awareness about the disease and combat stigma. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness characterized by bipolar emotional ups and downs. It is a disease in which there are some periods of depression throughout life, some periods of mania, and some periods of normal mood. The worldwide prevalence of bipolar disorder is estimated to vary between 2 and 5%, and according to the World Health Organization, it is ranked as the sixth disease causing disability. Bipolar disorder can occur at any time in life. The average age of onset is 25. The cause of bipolar disorder is not yet fully known. Environmental factors are factors in the development of the disease. Risk factors that we frequently encounter in our daily lives: It manifests itself in the form of physical and emotional abuse and neglect, a traumatic event or significant loss, excessive or long-term stress, heavy alcohol or drug use, and seasonal change. With the emergence of COVID-19 disease into our lives, we have been exposed to environmental factors very frequently in the last three years. We must be aware of the emotional fluctuations we experience in our daily lives. Early diagnosis and treatment, especially regular preventive treatment, are of vital importance in preventing disease periods. Preventing stigma in the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of bipolar disorder and increasing the accessibility of health services will significantly facilitate the disease process of patients.