Celebrities with Bipolar Disorder

Many public figures have talked about living with bipolar disorder. Hearing their stories can reduce stigma and help people feel less alone. This page explains what bipolar disorder is, common symptoms, types, and treatment. It also lists some well-known people who have discussed their experience.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition with shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. It affects men and women in similar numbers and often starts in the teen or young adult years. The NIMH estimates bipolar disorder affects about 2.8% of U.S. adults in a given year. Learn more about our bipolar disorder resources.

Manic or hypomanic symptoms may include

• Euphoric or irritable mood
• More energy and activity
• Less need for sleep
• Fast speech or racing thoughts
• Impulsive or high-risk choices
• Taking on many tasks at once

Depressive symptoms may include

• Low mood or hopelessness
• Very low energy
• Sleep and appetite changes
• Trouble focusing
• Loss of interest or pleasure
• Thoughts of death or suicide

If symptoms last two weeks or more, seek care. If there is any risk of self-harm, call or text 988 now.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

• Bipolar I: At least one manic episode. Depressive episodes are common.
• Bipolar II: Hypomanic episodes and major depression.
• Cyclothymic Disorder: Ongoing hypomanic and depressive symptoms that do not meet full criteria.
• Other Specified/Unspecified: Clinically significant symptoms that do not fit the above.

See our overview of the types of bipolar disorder and talk with a licensed clinician for an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

Most people improve with a plan that fits their symptoms and goals:

• Medication: Mood stabilizers, atypical antipsychotics, and other options when appropriate
• Psychotherapy: CBT, family-focused therapy, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy
• Supportive care: Structured outpatient or inpatient programs
• Lifestyle: Regular sleep, exercise, nutrition, stress reduction

Learn more from NIMH on medications and therapy. If you need a higher level of care, read about inpatient treatment options.

Celebrities Who Have Discussed Bipolar Disorder

The following public figures have publicly shared their experience with bipolar disorder in interviews, memoirs, or advocacy work. This list is for awareness, not diagnosis.

• Demi Lovato
• Mariah Carey
• Stephen Fry
• Selena Gomez
• Russell Brand
• Linda Hamilton
• Rene Russo
• Ted Turner
• David Feherty
• Vivien Leigh
• Winston Churchill
• Ernest Hemingway
• Vincent van Gogh
• Kurt Cobain

Stories from well-known people can inspire hope. Treatment helps. Support works.

Get Help

Urgent: Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can also call your local emergency number.

To explore care options, contact us. We can discuss inpatient programs and referrals, or request a call now.