Mental health activist Veronica Jacuinde has been a champion for those battling bipolar disorder for almost two decades. Her personal journey with the condition has fueled her passion for advocacy, and now, she is gearing up for a significant milestone in her community. On April 1, 2025, the city of Wasco will celebrate its inaugural World Bipolar Day, an event aimed at raising awareness and breaking the stigma surrounding bipolar disorder.
Jacunde’s efforts to bring this event to Wasco highlight the importance of community support in mental health awareness. She has collaborated with local officials to ensure that this day not only acknowledges the challenges faced by individuals with bipolar disorder but also promotes early diagnosis and effective treatment options.
In another part of the country, the Rotary Club has also taken significant strides to highlight World Bipolar Day. On March 29, 2025, they organized an awareness and fundraising event at the Orchards Shopping Centre in Haywards Heath. This initiative aimed to break the stigma surrounding bipolar disorder while promoting early diagnosis and providing information about a new local bipolar peer support group covering Haywards Heath and surrounding areas.
Judith Pratt, the Rotary District lead for the Bipolar-Rotary partnership, expressed her enthusiasm for the community's involvement, stating, “The community response has been incredible. It’s inspiring to see so many people come together to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and support such an important cause.”
The event featured a 9.5-minute cycling challenge, which the organizers symbolically linked to the long road to diagnosis for those affected by bipolar disorder. Remarkably, 23 participants, ranging in age from ten to 80, cycled a combined total of 95 kilometers. This collective effort not only showcased the community's spirit but also served as a powerful reminder of the journey many face in seeking help and understanding.
Thanks to a generous £1,000 sponsorship from Nicola Bird, the centre manager of Orchards Shopping Centre, the initiative has been able to sustain the new local peer support group. Additionally, the Rotary Club celebrated raising more than £12,000 to establish this group, which is vital for providing support to those affected by bipolar disorder.
On the day of the event, visitors to the shopping centre participated in a myth-busting quiz designed to educate attendees about bipolar disorder. Orange roses were handed out to symbolize support and gratitude towards caregivers, further fostering a sense of community and awareness. Families also had the opportunity to purchase flowers for Mother’s Day, with all proceeds going to Bipolar UK, raising an extra £550 through flower sales and donations.
The new peer support group meets every fourth Wednesday of the month from 6:30 PM to 8 PM at The Yews in Boltro Road, Haywards Heath. It offers a safe space for individuals to connect, share experiences, and support each other in their journeys with bipolar disorder. Those interested in joining or learning more about Bipolar UK can visit the Rotary website or reach out via email.
This year marks the third year of the partnership between Rotary Great Britain and Ireland and Bipolar UK, demonstrating a sustained commitment to mental health advocacy. As the community rallies around these initiatives, it becomes increasingly clear that raising awareness and providing support for those affected by bipolar disorder is not just an event, but a vital ongoing effort.
As World Bipolar Day approaches, both Wasco and Haywards Heath are setting powerful examples of how communities can come together to support mental health initiatives. With activists like Jacuinde leading the charge and organizations like the Rotary Club working tirelessly to raise funds and awareness, individuals living with bipolar disorder are finding their voices and the support they need.
In a world where mental health issues are often stigmatized, events like these are crucial. They not only educate the public but also empower those affected by bipolar disorder to seek help and share their experiences. As more communities engage in these conversations, the hope is that understanding and compassion will grow, paving the way for a better future for everyone impacted by mental health challenges.
