The effect of climate crisis on bipolar disorder: A qualitative study about experiences of individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder

Abstract

Introduction:

It can be said that the bipolar disorder is influenced by weather events. It is stated that climate change can have direct and indirect effects on bipolar disorder. Determining the impact of the climate crisis on individuals with bipolar disorder may assist in the development of preventive, protective and active treatment interventions for this group.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to determine the views and experiences of people with bipolar disorder about the impact of the climate crisis on their illness.

Method:

The study was conducted using the phenomenological method, one of the qualitative study methods. Purposive sampling was used to select the sample for the study. In-depth individual interviews were conducted with the selected sample group. Data saturation was reached with 11 participants and data collection was finalized. The study data was collected using a personal information form and an open-ended structured interview form in which participants were asked about their views and experiences of the climate crisis. Voice recordings were transcribed, and categories, sub-themes and themes were formed.

Results:

Based on the statements of people with a bipolar diagnosis, the study formed the themes of emotional impact, negative physical impact, impact on daily life, impact on symptoms, negative impact on recovery and ways of coping.

Conclusion:

People with a bipolar diagnosis are negatively affected by the impact of the climate crisis in many areas. There is a need to develop intervention programmes to arm people with a bipolar diagnosis against the negative effects of the climate crisis.