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17. From Darkness to Daylight: An Inspiring Path to Overcoming the Stigma of Bipolar Disorder in Nepal
Bipolar disorder in Nepal is a topic more often clouded by misunderstanding and stigma. Many people living with this condition go undiagnosed or untreated for years.
As a leading psychiatrist Dr. Kenison Shrestha explains,
“Bipolar disorder in Nepal remains one of the most under-recognized yet highly treatable mental health conditions.”
This blog helps us understand bipolar disorder, breaking stigma and discovering the pathway to recovery.
Understanding Bipolar Disorder in Nepal
Most of us think that bipolar disorder is just about being “moody”, but it’s not always true. It is a serious mood disorder characterized by extreme changes in mood, energy, and activities levels.
The bipolar disorder has two main poles:
- Manic or Hypomanic Episode (High phase): This phase is not just feeling happy, it is the period of unusually high, elevated, expansive, excited or irritable mood.
- Depressive episode (Low phase): This phase is not just being sad. This phase has a persistent deep sadness, hopelessness, and fatigue.
These shifts of mood can affect individuals’ work, relationships, decision making and self-esteem.
Dr. Kenison Shrestha, who regularly treats Bipolar Disorder in Nepal, explains:
“Many people mistake mania for happiness, and depression for weakness. But bipolar disorder is a medical condition that deserves the same attention and care as for other diseases like heart disease or diabetes.”
Breaking down the signs and Understanding Bipolar Disorders in Detail:
Manic or Hypomanic Episodes:
During a manic phase, a person might:
- Feel overly confident or euphoric.
- Sleep very little but still feel energetic. (Decreased need for sleep)
- Racing thoughts and rapid/ pressured speech. (talking rapidly)
- Grandiose beliefs (e.g. unrealistic plans about starting a multi million rupees business)
- Impulsive, high risk behavior (reckless spending, impulsive travel, substance abuse)
- Easily get distracted, jumping from one idea to another.
Hypomania is the less severe form of mania lasting for a few hours to days and often goes unnoticed.
In Nepal, most of these symptoms go unnoticed and sometimes even admired as “high motivation” or “creativity”. But unchecked mania can lead to serious consequences.
Depressive Episodes:
The next phase, depressive episodes may include:
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness.
- Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities.
- Fatigue or loss of motivation.
- Though of worthlessness or self Harm.
- Difficulty in concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.
- Significant changes in appetite or sleep (sleeping too much or too little).
In Nepal, these phases are considered as signs of “weakness” or just “stressed”. Sadly, due to this stigma, many suffer in silence.
The Reality of Bipolar Disorder in Nepal
In Nepal, awareness about bipolar disorder is still limited.
Talking about bipolar disorder in Nepal is impossible without addressing cultural background. They have been attributed to Bhoot-pret (ghosts and spirits), past life sins, or simply a weakness of a character.
More often may label these symptoms as “Pagal” (being mad). This cultural stigma is a formidable adversary, but it is one we can and must overcome with compassion and education.
Dr. Kenison emphasizes:
“Bipolar Disorder is not a character flaw. It’s a medical condition that needs compassion, not criticism.”
However, change is happening. More people are advocating about mental health, and the younger generation is becoming more accepting of therapy and psychiatric care.
The Road to Recovery: Modern Treatment in a Nepali Context
The good news is “bipolar disorder is treatable”. With proper medical and psychological support, individuals can manage symptoms and lead balanced quality of life.
Treatment for bipolar disorder in Nepal involves a holistic approach to the individual. These includes:
Approach:
At Dr. Kenison Shrestha’s Clinic, patients undergo detailed evaluation of mood history, lifestyle, family background, and other mental health factors to accurately identify the disorder.
Medication:
Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants play an important role in regulating mood swings.
These help regulate brain Neuro chemistry and reduce the intensity and frequency of mood episodes.
“Medication doesn’t change your personality; it stabilizes your emotions so you can be yourself again”, says Dr. Shrestha.
Psychotherapy:
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and other counselling techniques help patients develop proper coping strategies.
Lifestyle Management:
- Regular adequate sleep
- Healthy diet plan
- Avoiding psychoactive substances Exercise plays a crucial role.
Community Support:
Support groups provide encouragement and reduce feelings of isolation.
Personal Stories of Hope and Recovery
Overcoming Bipolar disorder in Nepal is a journey of courage. It takes courage to walk into a psychiatrist despite the whispers. It takes courage to take that first pill. It takes courage to sit in therapy and confront painful patterns. And it takes courage to tell your family, “I need help.”
But this journey helps transform you. It forges a resilience and self awareness that many never achieve. The same intensity of feeling that once caused chaos can, in stability, become a source of profound empathy, creativity, and depth.
The darkness does not have to be permanent. Daylight is waiting.
With proper treatment and support, individuals can:
- Enjoy emotional stability.
- Maintain quality of life and fulfill careers.
- Maintain healthy relationships.
- Give proper and rational decisions.
“Recovery is not about eliminating mood changes completely- it’s about learning to manage them wisely,” says Dr. Kenison.
How Families and Friends Can Help
Support from loved ones is critical. They are the pillar of strength to the person with bipolar.
- Educate yourself about bipolar disorder.
- Listen without judgement and offer emotional support.
- Be patient through episodes and crises.
- Help reduce isolation by including loved ones in social activities.
Take the Step Toward Healing
If you or someone you love experiences the symptoms described here, do not let fear, shame, or stigma silence you any longer. Your well-being is not a luxury; it is the foundation upon which your life, your family, and your dreams are built.
Reach out today. Schedule a confidential consultation. Think of it as the ultimate act of self-care and strength rather than defeat.
With the right diagnosis, treatment, and support, recovery is absolutely possible.
Bipolar Disorder in Nepal
Book an appointment:
Dr. Kenison Shrestha’s MindCare Clinic
9851096229
01-5424111, 9765024111
9861508888
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