Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMN), 2.6% Americans are diagnosed with the condition. It is characterized by extreme mood swings that range from manic highs to depressive lows. Movies have become a medium for storytelling, giving them the opportunity to educate and inspire others about mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder.
Bipolar disorder has been depicted in films for decades, however its portrayal has often been inaccurate by exaggerating symptoms for dramatic effects. In the early days of film, mental health conditions were sensationalized through characters appearing as dangerous or unstable, which is a common stereotype according to Declan O’Hern of Elon University. Therefore, it’s important to approach movies critically and seek out accurate information from reputable sources.
The world of film has come a long way, although there is still work that needs to be done. Movies have become a powerful tool in showing the struggles and triumphs of characters with bipolar disorder, contributing to a more compassionate understanding and view towards the condition while reducing its stigma. Additionally, it can encourage more open and honest conversations about bipolar disorder.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a chronic mental health condition and is often debilitating. It is characterized by extreme mood swings ranging from manic highs to depressive lows. If symptoms are severe, it can interfere with daily life and lead to hospitalization.
There are several types of bipolar disorder, including bipolar I, bipolar II, cyclothymic disorder, and other specified and unspecified bipolar and related disorders. Each type has its own set of diagnostic criteria and treatment options.
Bipolar disorder is a complex condition to diagnose and can often be mistaken for other mental health conditions. Hence, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional who can conduct thorough evaluation, through physical exams, labs tests, and psychiatric assessment. Fortunately, this condition is treatable through a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Movies have the potential to bring this often-misunderstood condition to the mainstream by providing insight on the experiences of people with bipolar disorder. While these films can increase understanding, they should not be a substitute for professional help.
Top 10 Movies About Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition. With today’s openness and awareness towards mental health, there have been several films that have attempted to depict bipolar disorder in a more accurate and nuanced way. Here are six movies that stand out:
1. Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
Starring Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence, this romantic comedy-drama follows the story of Pat Solitatno Jr. (played by Cooper), a man with bipolar disorder who tries to get his life back together after spending time in a mental institution. The film portrays the challenges of living with this illness and the impact it can have on relationships. It also highlights the importance of having support from friends and family.
2. Touched with Fire (2015)
The movie starring Katie Holmes and Luke Kirby, is a romantic drama that explores the relationship between two poets with bipolar disorder who fall in love in a psychiatric hospital. It portrays the challenges of people living with this mental health condition and the impact it can have on someone’s creativity. It also highlights the importance of finding good balance and stability while living with the condition.
3. Infinitely Polar Bear (2014)
This film is a drama-comedy starring Mark Ruffalo and Zoe Saldana, which tells the story of a man named Cam Stuart (played by Ruffalo), who has bipolar disorder. As a father, he tries to take care of his two young daughters while his wife (played by Saldana) attends graduate school. The film portrays the struggles of a parent who suffers from this mental health condition and how it can impact the family. It also highlights the challenges of caring for someone with bipolar disorder.
4. Mad Love (1995)
This romantic drama starring Drew Barrymore and Chris O’Donnell follows the story of two young high school students who meet when Casey (played by Barrymore) moves to a nearby house. As she becomes hospitalized, her boyfriend (played by O’Donell) helps her escape and tries to cope with her intense periods of depression and extreme euphoria. Some critics say that the film “sensationalizes” mental health struggles, however it does a good job of portraying the emotions and emotional waves experienced during manic and depressive episodes.
5. The Hours (2002)
This is a drama film starring Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman, and Julianne Moore. It explores the story of three women from different eras whose lives are connected by the novel Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf. While Virginia Woolf lives a successful life as an author, the movie shows her struggles with bipolar disorder and how it affected her personal and professional life.
6. Michael Clayton (2007)
This legal thriller starring George Clooney follows Clayton, a “fixer” for a large law firm who navigates a high-profile case and deals while dealing with his own personal demons. The film’s portrayal of Clayton’s struggle with bipolar disorder is nuanced and realistic. The story takes a comedic approach to the condition and offers a compelling look into the life of legal practitioners suffering from mental health.
7. The Informant! (2009)
The Informant! is a biopic starring Matt Damon, which is based on a true story. The film follows the life of Mark Whitacre, a high-level executive who is secretly struggling with bipolar disorder. As he becomes an informant for the FBI, he faces several challenges as he balances his condition and responsibilities to the agency.
8. Mr. Jones (1993)
This is a drama film where Richard Gere portrays Mr. Jones, a man who suffers from bipolar disorder and mania. As he becomes hospitalized, he begins an inappropriate romantic relationship with his psychiatrist named Dr. Elizabeth Bown (played by Lena Olin). The movie shows how he struggles with his condition and how Dr. Bowen tries to help him.
9. Helen (2009)
Helen is a drama film starring Ashley Judd that explores the story of a woman suffering from bipolar disorder. As she navigates her condition, the movie portrays how it affects her relationship with her family and friends. It highlights the symptoms of her condition and the importance of the support by loved ones.
10. Sylvia (2003)
This film is a biographical drama starring Gwyneth Paltrow, which explores the story of Sylvia Plath and her struggles with bipolar disorder while juggling a career as a prominent writer. The movie accurately depicts the manic and depressive episodes of the character and how it affects her work, relationships, and overall quality of life.
These movies show the highs and lows of bipolar disorder, providing an insight into what it’s like to live with the condition. They also show how treatment can help manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder and improve the overall quality of life for those who have it. However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s experience with the condition is unique, and these movies should be viewed as fictional representations rather than accurate depictions.
Depiction VS Reality
When watching films about bipolar disorder, the line between depiction and reality can be confusing. While most movies strive for accuracy, others have taken a creative approach that may misrepresent the disorder. Here we will differentiate the two:
Depiction
Movies portraying bipolar disorder should be used to raise awareness and reduce the stigma. Films such as “Silver Linings Playbook” and “Touched with Fire” have received praise for their realistic portrayal of the condition and making it easier to understand what it’s like to live with it.
Reality
While mental health is slowly becoming more recognized, there’s still plenty of information that people are unaware of. Inaccurate movies make this difficult as they exaggerate symptoms or portray bipolar disorder in a way that is not representative of everyone’s experience. It’s worth noting that this condition is complex, however it should not be deemed a one-size-fits all disorder as not everyone shares the same symptoms or triggers.
In an interview with VH1, Dr. Ruth C. White, a clinical associate professor in the School of Social Work at the University of Southern California talked about the depiction of bipolar disorder in the media being inaccurate.
In conclusion, films have the power to influence the public perception of mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder. Therefore, it’s important for filmmakers to consult with mental health professionals and individuals with lived experience in order to accurately and sensitively portray bipolar disorder in the media.
The Future of Bipolar Disorder in Cinema
As the conversation around mental health continues to grow, it is likely that we will see more movies and shows that accurately depict bipolar disorder. With the help of mental health professionals and individuals willing to share their experiences, filmmakers have the opportunity to create authentic portrayals to reduce stigma and increase understanding.
One potential avenue for future films is by exploring the intersection of bipolar disorder with other identities and experiences. For instance, a movie can focus on a member of the LGBTQ+ or a person of color struggling with the condition to create a more diverse representation in mental health.
Another possibility is exploring the impact of bipolar disorders in relationships. Movies like “Silver Linings Playbook” and “Touched with Fire” have already touched this theme, but there is still room for further exploration. Additionally, they can show how the condition affects their loved ones.
As technology continues to advance, there may also be new opportunities for filmmakers to explore bipolar disorder in innovative ways. For example, a movie could use virtual reality to stimulate the experience of a manic episode or use animation to visualize the internal struggles of a person with bipital disorder.
With a few of these ideas in mind, the future of bipolar disorder and mental health in general looks promising. If filmmakers prioritize the accuracy and authenticity of these conditions, movies and TV shows have the potential to challenge stereotypes, spark conversations about mental health, and encourage individuals to seek out treatment and support.
FAQs
What are documentaries about bipolar disorder?
There are several documentaries about bipolar disorder that provide valuable insights into the condition. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Up/Down: This documentary explores the lives of three people with bipolar disorder and their families. It provides a candid look at the challenges of living with the condition and the impact it has on loved ones.
- Stephen Fry: The Secret Life of the Manic Depressive: This documentary features actor and comedian Stephen Fry as he explores his own experiences with bipolar disorder and interviews others with the condition.
What movies about bipolar disorder are available on Hulu?
Hulu has several movies about bipolar disorder that are available to stream today. Some of these films include “The Informant!” (2009), “Infinitely Polar Bear” (2014), and “Touched with Fire” (2015).
Which TV shows have accurately portrayed characters with bipolar disorder?
Over the years, there have been a few TV shows that have accurately portrayed characters struggling with bipolar disorder. Some of the most popular include “Homeland” (2011-2020), which features a CIA agent named Carrie who has bipolar disorder and “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” (2015-2019), which follows the story of Rebecca who also struggles with the condition.
What is the life expectancy of a person with bipolar disorder?
While there is no specific life expectancy for those suffering from bipolar disorder, research has shown that they may have a shorter life span than the general population due to factors such as suicide, substance abuse, and physical health problems. According to a study by Kessing LV, Vradi E, Andersen PK (2015), the life expectancy in bipolar disorder patients substantially decreases by early and mid-adulthood.
Do people with bipolar disorder know they have it?
Many people with bipolar disorder may be aware of their symptoms associated to bipolar disorder, although they may not seek treatment. It’s important for people with bipolar disorder to receive an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment in order to manage their condition and improve their overall quality of life.