Personal Thoughts on the Documentary “Up/Down” Bipolar Disorder
This was an excellent documentary that immersed us in the lives of people suffering from BPD. It provided firsthand knowledge of how people with the illness face numerous challenges, the majority of which are caused by those around them who do not understand the disorder. I think everyone in this video was very brave to share their perspectives on what it’s like to have BPD. While watching it, there were a few things that really left me in awe of the daily life of a bipolar person.
It was interesting to observe the stigma that people with bipolar disorder face on a daily basis from family, friends, neighbors, and strangers. The public’s ignorance of people with bipolar disorder is both shocking and heartbreaking. The misinformation displayed in the street interviews was unsettling and alarming. This is primarily due to their lack of awareness of the illness’s normalcy. This documentary will help to end the stigma associated with this illness and will aid in the fight against mental illness.
It was also noted that some bipolar patients are embarrassed and ashamed of their illnesses. Even though the symptoms described can be severe, I believe it is a simple mental case that should not cause embarrassment. A mental disorder should be treated in the same way as a physical disorder.
This is an excellent documentary that provides a brief but powerful glimpse into the lives of those who are directly or indirectly affected by BPD.
This short film contains a lot of information. In my opinion, it’s a good representation of what people with BPD go through.
References
K. Gehring (Director). (2011). Bipolar Disorder Documentary “Up/Down” [motion picture]. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eyiZfzbgaW4 (accessed May 27, 2014).