The Human Element: Bipolar Disorder Treatment & Social Stigma

Individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder often experience social stigma that affects their treatment adherence and their overall well-being. This interdisciplinary reflection builds on existing research about how social stigma affects treatment adherence for patients with bipolar disorder. This reflection examines the disciplines of sociology and psychology within the context of how these disciplines can be combined to improve treatment adherence and overall quality of life for these patients. Symbolic interactionism and cognitive behavioral theory are introduced to explore how social constructs influence behavior and thought processes, leading to non-adherence to traditional treatment methods. Through compiling scholarly research on current treatment adherence rates, treatment methods, relevant social factors, and cultural representations of psychiatric disorders, this reflection analyzes how these concepts affect bipolar disorder treatment. The results of this research indicate that many patients with bipolar disorder struggle to maintain their treatment due to a lack of internal motivation, which is often worsened by unsupportive environments and negative social experiences. These results demonstrate how combining disciplines can improve treatment adherence by integrating socially conscious methods like motivational interviewing and psychoeducation into current treatment. By continuing to increase awareness of the interdisciplinary approach among professionals to include both social and psychological aspects of treatment, the human element is reintroduced and allows the patient’s individual story to be heard.