Mental health experts address SAPS members on bipolar disorder

Atlegang Makgoba
In celebration of World Bipolar Day on March 30, members of the Thembisa SAPS were treated to a talk about mental health issues.
The men and women in blue were educated on the symptoms of bipolar disorder and the stigmas that exist in the community.
Lillian Maleka, one of the principal police officers at Thembisa SAPS, said many police officers might not be aware that they have mental health issues until they seek professional help.
She said it is even worse for police officers who are expected to arrive for duty and perform whilst dealing with traumatising situations and cases that affect the state of their minds.
“In 2020, I went through a depressive state because I lost family members because of Covid-19 and many of my colleagues went through a lot either personally or because of work-related issues.
“It is unfortunate that we realised the extent of the issue. When you realise there is a problem, seek professional help,” said Maleka.
Clinical psychologist at the Life Carstenview Mental Healthcare facility Dr Patrick Mothapo described the typical behaviours of someone with bipolar disorder.
He said bipolar disorder is a mental condition and that often people mistakenly think bipolar disorder is a case of schizophrenia, a disorder that affects a person’s ability to think, feel and behave clearly.
“What you find in most cases of people with bipolar disorder is that they have episodes of mood swings, ranging from a manic state to a depressive state.
“You find that a person you know suddenly has endless energy. They struggle from lack of sleep because of racing thoughts. They are aggressive and impulsive, have euphoric moods, provocative behaviour, poor judgement and increased sexual interest as well as substance abuse. This is when someone is in a manic state of depression.
“However, when someone is in the depressive state of bipolar, they are the opposite. These people are restless, have self-doubt, a sense of hopelessness, anxiety, persistent sadness, difficulty in falling asleep, a general loss of energy and interest in the pleasure of activities.”
According to Sadag, up to 46 million of the population suffer from bipolar disorder.