Did you know that bipolar disorder is six times more common among people who are exceptionally creative?
Professor Greg Murray, of Swinbourne University suggests that it may have something to do with their changing moods, getting an insight when they are right down to their lowest level but being able to act when they move into their cycle of high or elevated mood. It also helps that these individuals have a strong drive to achieve.
This creativity finding is significant in a number of ways. Firstly overall creativity happens to be valued by people with bipolar disorder, as creative expression is a means of connecting with others and getting satisfaction from life and that’s something they don’t want to lose. But it seems that their creativity can be flattened by the medications that are the mainstay of their treatment.
This new research opens up ways and new treatments to engage people who are bipolar. Psychologists are coming up with more creative programmes of help and say action-based interventions and treatments that offer more opportunity for self expression will provide greater benefit.
Especially Positive psychology has exciting implications for therapists and patients. Setting a positive and meaningful goal is critical. The emphasis then, is away from a reduction of symptoms to towards leading a satisfying life.
Bipolar Disorder is generally a life long chronic condition and to identify this major core strength, Creativity, is a real springboard to achieving this goal.
If you know someone who needs a little help getting their life humming happily along, call us at CIT Psych Services . Speak to Liz to arrange an appointment with one of our experts. Call 0401032095 today.