Bipolar disorder is a condition that affects around 2.8 percent of the adult population in the United States. This mental health issue can be treated through therapy and medication, and if you or a loved one is struggling, it’s important to reach out for help. At Westwind Recovery®, we offer dual diagnosis treatment to help those who are facing both addiction and mental health issues. This approach to treatment can lead to lasting sobriety and true healing.
Over time, bipolar disorder has been the subject of many books, movies, songs, and other artistic endeavors. Many of the following movies portray the realities of bipolar disorder, and some show the hope that treatment can bring as well. If you’re struggling, reach out for help from a treatment center near you today.
Bipolar Disorder Movies
1. The Ghost and the Whale – 2016
Joseph Hawthorne plays a man whose wife becomes lost at sea. Joseph’s untreated bipolar disorder makes him believe that a whale killed his wife. The Ghost and the Whale is a story that looks into the depths of this mental health condition as the audience watches Joseph lapse into alternating hysterical mania and crippling depression.
2. Infinitely Polar Bear – 2014
Infinitely Polar Bear is the story of a mixed-race couple raising their children in the 1970s. The husband, played by Mark Ruffalo, cannot work because of his bipolar disorder. As a result, he stays home and raises two daughters that try to understand his condition.
3. My Friend Paul – 1999
My Friend Paul is a documentary by filmmaker Jonathan Berman. It features Super 8 films of his best friend who has bipolar disorder. Twenty years later, Berman films his friend again as he is released from prison for committing 11 bank robberies. The story is a revealing look at bipolar disorder and how people cope with the condition.
4. Silver Linings Playbook – 2012
Silver Linings Playbook is an award-winning romantic comedy that has Patrizio Solitano Jr., a man with bipolar disorder, competing in a dance contest with a girl he meets at a dinner played by Jennifer Lawrence. The movie gives the audience a look not only at bipolar disorder but addiction and OCD as well.
5. Touched With Fire – 2015
Touched With Fire is the story of two people with bipolar disorder who fall in love. They meet while getting bipolar disorder treatment. The film is interesting because it shows how the two play off of and still support each other and their illness. The move brings out both the horror of the condition and the beauty of it at the same time.
6. Of Two Minds – 2012
Of Two Minds is a documentary about the daily struggles of living with bipolar disorder. It shows the complications of developing relationships, maintaining a job, and even medical problems that often accompany the disease.
7. At Eternity’s Gate – 2018
At Eternity’s Gate explores the life of Vincent Van Gogh and his struggle later in his life with bipolar disorder. The story focuses on Van Gogh’s relationship with fellow painter Paul Gauguin and how their troubled friendship leads him to a stay in the mental institution in Saint-Remy-de-Provence.
8. The Devil And Daniel Johnston – 2005
This is a documentary about the life of musician Daniel Johnston and his struggle with bipolar disorder. His condition manifests into demonic self-obsession that might be at the heart of his creative genius.
Bipolar Disorder Treatment at Westwind Recovery®
It’s not uncommon for those with bipolar disorder to develop a substance use disorder as well. They might turn to drugs and alcohol to cope with periods of depression. Alternatively, during periods of mania, substances can seem like a way to extend feelings of euphoria. Westwind Recovery® is an addiction treatment program in Los Angeles specializing in mental health services like bipolar disorder treatment programs and sober living.
At Westwind Recovery®, you’ll find:
- Six residential beds
- Six detox beds
- 80 outpatient slots
- Dual diagnosis treatment
Westwest Recovery’s integrated treatment program provides:
- Accurate diagnosis
- Education about addiction and psychiatric disorders
- Proven therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment
This comprehensive approach to bipolar disorder and substance abuse treatment can help individuals achieve lasting recovery.
Contact Westwind Recovery®
If someone you love is struggling with bipolar disorder, we can help. We offer a wide range of treatment programs to help our clients heal. These include:
- Detox programs – Begin sobriety with a strong foundation
- Inpatient treatment – Focus on your recovery away from the stresses of everyday life
- Outpatient treatment – Flexible treatment options to help you transition back to daily activities
- Sober living – A supportive, structured living situation for those in treatment
If you’re ready to learn more about our treatment programs, give Westwind Recovery® a call at 855.340.8832 today or reach out to us online. Our team members can help you access the dual diagnosis treatment you need to heal.
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
