What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar Disorder is a condition in which there is a disorder of mood, with the mood swinging from very low (depression) to very high (mania), thus its previous name of manic depression. People also have periods of stable moods between these episodes. Often people describe this as feeling like they are on a rollercoaster, however with treatment life can be full and promising again. Bipolar is generally categorised into three main types, Bipolar 1, full episodes of both mania and depression, Bipolar II, episodes of hypomania and depression and Bipolar NOR, which is Bipolar not otherwise specified, which covers mixed episodes and rapid cycling.
Why the change from “Manic Depression” to “Bipolar”? Many people assumed the manic was a shortened form of maniac, thus giving people with this condition a real stigma and isolation, by renaming it Bipolar it has allowed us to educate people that it is exactly that, a swing from one pole to the other, thus two poles, i.e. “Bipolar”.
Even Keel offers a network of support groups in Western Australia for people diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (also known as manic depression), depression, schizophrenia and related disorders. Participation in these groups can have a healing effect, allowing participants to better understand their illness, explore their issues and and gain better control of their lives. Family, friends and other interested members of the community are welcome to attend our groups, including our online forum. We also have a library and resource centre. Our group coordinators are caring, supportive and empathic; with many of our employees having a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder themselves.
Our Mission
Our aim at Even Keel is to offer friendship, understanding, information and a sense of hope to people living with Bipolar Disorder or related disorders. Also to educate people and thus remove the stigma associated with mental illness. We also welcome family, friends and other interested community members.
Welcome to this site. Please step in and have a look around. We hope that you enjoy the site and find some valuable information. If you would like to become a member of Even Keel please contact the office. By becoming a member you get support for yourself and also support us in our efforts to help others. You will receive an introductory kit and also a three monthly newsletter. We are also available Mon and Fri 9.30-3.30pm for you to discuss any issues you may have or to access our Library and resource centre.
Profile
Even Keel has been operating now for twenty eight years. Thank you to the founding committee members who created this valuable and nurturing organisation. We would also like to thank all our members who are all a valuable part of our service.
Here are a few comments from our members:
“…what I like most about the support groups is being able to discuss the issues that are most important to me…”
“…I have found so many useful and entertaining books and videos in the library…”