bipolar Disorder in Indonesia: A Growing Concern

TimesIndonesia, Jakarta – Living in Indonesia today presents notable challenges. Economic pressures, political instability, and teh lingering effects of the pandemic create a considerable psychological burden. Amidst this turmoil, bipolar disorder is a mental health issue often overlooked despite its profound impact.

Many still dismiss it as mere “moodiness” or “oversensitivity.” However, it is a serious medical condition. The World Health Association (WHO) estimates 60 million people worldwide live with bipolar disorder. The United States saw a surge in cases from 3.4 million to 5.7 million between 2015 and 2016.

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In Indonesia, Bipolar Care Indonesia reports an alarming increase from 1% (2016) to 2% (2017), equating to approximately 72,860 Indonesians experiencing this condition. The actual number is highly likely higher due to underdiagnosis.

Why is Indonesia particularly susceptible to bipolar disorder? The country faces numerous challenges. Frequent demonstrations, economic volatility, and increasing life pressures all contribute. For individuals with a genetic predisposition to bipolar disorder, these conditions exacerbate the risk.

Digital factors also play a role.Constant access to social media disrupts sleep patterns, while sleep disorders are a primary trigger for manic episodes. The culture of showcasing idealized lives on platforms like Instagram and Facebook fosters feelings of inadequacy, particularly hazardous during depressive episodes.

Sadly, community stigma remains strong. Patients are often labeled as “crazy,” “attention-seeking,” or “lacking faith.” This is a purely medical condition that can affect anyone.

What does it feel like to live with bipolar disorder? Imagine a relentless,uncontrollable rollercoaster. During a manic episode, sufferers experience boundless energy, inflated self-esteem, and a surge of creative ideas. This can lead to reckless spending, minimal sleep, and impulsive decisions.

conversely,a depressive episode feels like falling off a cliff. Its characterized by profound sadness, loss of interest in all activities, and debilitating fatigue, making even getting out of bed a struggle. The most frightening aspect is the emergence of suicidal thoughts.

Various studies have shown adolescents age