Katy Sara Culling - Writer

"My own history of mania and depression has been a background to more than thirty years of my life... It’s time for a Great Leap Forward in funding, prioritisation, public understanding and knowledge. Do join us at the Bipolar Foundation!"

Stephen Fry has experienced mental health problems for much of his life. But it wasn't until he was 37 that he was finally diagnosed with bipolar disorder. "I'd never heard the word before, but for the first time I had a diagnosis that explained the massive highs and miserable lows I'd lived with all my life."

During research for his documentary 'The Secret Life of The Manic Depressive', Stephen found out just how serious this illness is, that it affects up to 4 million people in the UK, and that up to 20% end up killing themselves. He was also dismayed to discover the extent of prejudice surrounding mental health problems. "I want to speak out, to fight the public stigma and to give a clearer picture of mental illness that most people know little about."

Stephen thinks better public awareness is essential to help people break their silence. For this his many fans applaud him. The link to his website is on my links page. 

When asked if he could push a magic button and then would be able to live a normal life, or  would he keep his bipolarity Stephen replied, "I wouldn't live a normal life, not for all the tea in China." This made me think he has been relatively lucky with his mania and depression, and has not sunk as low as others and I. Then again, even with what I have suffered, I'm not sure I would push his magic button either!

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