It is our great pleasure to introduce our free e-learning courses developed by Bipolar Australia, designed to help you learn about the definition of bipolar disorder, how it is different from other illnesses, how to identify the different types of bipolar disorder and their key signs and symptoms, treatments including diagnosis, medications, therapies, mood tracking & wellness plans treatments, as well as the role of carers, family and friends in Bipolar Disorder management. We hope you enjoy the content.

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Course 1: What is bipolar?

Course 2: Treatments for bipolar

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We are currently upgrading Course 3: Information for carers, friends, and family.​

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Course 4: Suicide First Aid

Course 5: Hospitalisation

Course 6: The History of Bipolar

Course 7: Bipolar - A Shared Experience

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Information about these new courses:

 

Course 4: Suicide First Aid
The suicide rate for people living with bipolar is between 10-30 times higher than the general population, and account for up to 25% of all suicides. This course offers advice and resources to those who are suicidal, also help to those supporting someone who is suicidal. It covers: how to identify warning signs, offering immediate assistance, developing a safety plan, using the TASC model, and connecting individuals at risk with appropriate resources.

Important clarification*

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Course 5: Hospitalisation 

The next course explores the role hospitalisation in the treatment of Bipolar. Although most bipolar patients in the acute phase do not require extended inpatient psychiatric hospitalisations, short-term hospitalisations can be necessary (e.g., severe mood episodes, suicidal attempts, untreated bipolar symptoms, bipolar medication adjustments, etc.). This course empowers individuals to receive optimal care and support in navigating the health care system during a time of crisis. 

 

Course 6: The History of Bipolar
This course delves into the rich history of bipolar disorder enabling us to understand how far we have come with treatment and the ground-breaking discoveries that have led us to where we are today. We also look to what the future of bipolar treatment might be.

Course 7: Bipolar - A Shared Experience
In this course we focus on historically marginalised and underrepresented groups within society (LGBTQI+, First Nations, people of African Ancestry, older adults, young people, women), and how people with bipolar in these communities might encounter distinct challenges. We look to better inform the community about the different intersections of society and how we can be more culturally inclusive regarding those with complex co-morbid mental ill health.

We really hope these courses are helpful. 

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*Important clarification:

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When we say 'it's OK' to have suicidal thoughts or feelings we mean to acknowledge that these experiences are a normal part of the human experience for many people, especially during difficult times. 

 

It's crucial to understand that having these thoughts doesn't mean you're flawed or that you're alone. However, it doesn't mean these thoughts should be taken lightly or ignored.

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If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings, please know that there are people who care about you and want to support you. Reach out to:

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- Lifeline (13 11 14)
- Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636)
- Kids Helpline (1800 551 800)
- Your GP or mental health professional

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Your feelings are valid, and there's help available.