Increasing awareness of bipolar disorder is an important mission for behavioral health specialists at UT Physicians. Overcoming the stigma associated with the illness is crucial to bridging the gap between those affected and evidenced-based treatment. Bipolar disorder affects two percent of the world’s population, yet only one-third of those individuals will seek treatment.
UT Physicians and the Department of Psychiatry at McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) are working to expand awareness of World Bipolar Day (March 30th) into communities in the Greater Houston area. Together, we are hosting an event at UT Physicians at Sienna Village called, “Focus on Families: Behavioral Health in Children and Adolescents.”
“As we learn more about the causes of bipolar disorder and develop new treatments, the significance of reaching out and connecting with families becomes increasingly important,” said Jair Soares, M.D., Ph.D., chair of the Department of Psychiatry at McGovern Medical School. “Early identification and intervention can have tremendous impact on a patient’s success over time.”
A panel of experts has been assembled to discuss a wide range of topics from recognizing the warning signs to the latest cutting-edge research and treatments. Specialists will also address other behavioral challenges such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Early identification of behavioral conditions can be crucial for building resilience, self-esteem and a personalized treatment plan. Everyone is invited to attend this free event. Registration is online.
World Bipolar Day is an initiative of the Asian Network of Bipolar Disorder, the International Bipolar Foundation and the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. Through international collaboration, the goal of World Bipolar Day is to disseminate facts about the disorder that will educate and improve sensitivity towards the illness.
