Bipolar disorder is one of the most commonly known, and misunderstood, mental health diagnoses. Sometimes used as an insult or a catch-all description of erratic behavior, it is in fact a serious medial condition. For those who have it, the uncontrollable mood swings it causes can make living a normal life extremely difficult. In addition, people with bipolar disorder often hide their condition, for fear of stigma and being labeled mentally unstable. As mental health in general becomes less stigmatized, some celebrities have come forward and disclosed that they have bipolar disorder. Here are some famous people that have opened up about having bipolar disorder.
Mariah Carey might be a pop music legend, but she’s also known for struggling with mental health issues during her career. Carey was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2001 but stated she “lived in denial and isolation” about her condition for years. Carey finally sought treatment and has recently opened up about her journey and diagnosis.
Carrie Fisher is best known for playing the iconic Princess Leia in the Star Wars franchise. But she’s also been a huge advocate for mental health ever since getting diagnosed with bipolar disorder at the age of 24. Since then she’s called for more attention and research on the condition.
Demi Lovato got her start on the Disney Channel but has since become a full-fledged pop star. In 2010 she admitted herself into a treatment program for addiction and self-harm issues. While in the treatment center, she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Since then the singer has been vocal about mental health issues and has become an advocate for young girls struggling like she has.
Kurt Cobain is best known for being the lead singer of Nirvana, and unfortunately for being a member of the so-called “27 club,” due to his untimely death due to suicide at the age of 27. Cobain was diagnosed with ADD as a child, and later on life was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Cobain never sought treatment and struggled with addiction and mental health issues throughout his life. He also suffered from depression, and sadly committed suicide at the age of 27.
Ernest Hemingway was a Nobel Prize-winning author whose work is still read and adored today. Throughout his life, he was prone to manic-depressive behavior, something his parents, son, and granddaughter all shared. He ultimately ended his life in 1961.
Ted Turner is the founder of Turner Broadcasting and CNN. Before becoming a media giant, Turner spent much of his life battling depression and bipolar disorder. Despite those struggles, he managed to turn a small independent TV station into a global media empire.
Catherine Zeta-Jones is an Academy Award-winning actress, who also happens to have bipolar disorder. She’s been married to fellow actor Michael Douglas since 2000. The stress of her husband battling tongue cancer led to her seeking treatment, and a diagnosis of depression and bipolar disorder.
It’s important to remember that mental illness doesn’t discriminate. You’re not alone; around 5.7 million adults in America are afflicted with bipolar disorder. If you or someone you know is seeking psychiatric help for their issues, feel free to contact us.
