The symptoms of bipolar disorder usually show up as very intense emotions—extremely high highs, and very low lows.

These episodes involve periods of elation, known as mania, and bouts of depression. Common symptoms of bipolar disorder include binge eating, drinking, drug use, sexual promiscuity, and spending sprees. While mental health issues are thought of by some as a problem of the masses, some of those with the spotlight shining brightly down on them struggle just the same. There are plenty of famous people with bipolar disorder that have needed to learn how to best cope with the symptoms while also coping with fame. We’re sharing a list of celebrities with bipolar disorder that may surprise you.

Successful People With Bipolar Disorder

Although this may shock you, there are many famous people with bipolar disorder. Our list of celebs who suffer from this condition further proves that mental illness does not discriminate and can happen to anyone. Whether you’ve been impacted by this condition and need encouragement or you’re just curious, below are some celebrities who struggle with bipolar disorder and their stories.

Mariah Carey

One of the most celebrated female vocalists of late 1900s pop, Mariah Carey has left her mark on the music industry for good with more than a dozen No. 1 hits on the Billboard charts. However, she’s also one of the many celebs with bipolar disorder. After struggling for many years behind closed doors, Carey was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2001. She said she finally sought mental health treatment after a series of professional and romantic issues and, to this day, has continued to tour and make music.

Mel Gibson

Mel Gibson is one of the more well-known actors with bipolar disorder. From works like “Braveheart,” “Passion of the Christ,” and “The Patriot,” Mel Gibson has remained one of the most recognizable names in the movie industry today. After happenings in his personal life became common scrap-mag headlines, he revealed that he was diagnosed as bipolar in 2008. Now in his mid-60s, Gibson has kept out of the limelight for the most part but is still an active moviemaker

Russell Brand

Even though he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder as a youth, Russell Brand’s irreverent comic found his way to fame in showbiz, with jobs at MTV and the BBC before morphing into a movie star with appearances in “Get Him to the Greek” and “Forgetting Sarah Marshall.” Brand has also been transparent about his struggles with an unhappy childhood, heroin and crack addiction, bulimia, and sex addiction, but he has maintained his sobriety since 2002.¹

Kanye West

Another one of many successful musicians with bipolar disorder, Kanye West, is a pop culture icon, billionaire, and inflaming topic on all social media platforms. West has been very open about his bipolar symptoms since being diagnosed in 2016. He’s been so open about his struggles, in fact, that he’s even inscribed the cover of one of his albums with the note, “I hate being Bi-Polar it’s awesome.” While West has said he doesn’t take medication for his condition, he continues to make music and is an active voice in American culture.²

Treatment for Bipolar Disorder in Adults

The most effective treatment for bipolar disorder starts with a proper diagnosis by a medical professional. The next step is usually a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Most people take more than one drug, such as a mood stabilizer and an antipsychotic or antidepressant. Psychological treatments, such as therapy, help you deal with depression and provide advice on how to improve relationships and allow someone with bipolar disorder to recognize the triggers and signs of a manic or depressive episode.

Dealing with bipolar disorder is a difficult task, no matter who you are. Even famous stars with bipolar disorder understand the importance of professional treatment for recovery. At Banyan Mental Health, we know how to help someone with bipolar disorder, substance abuse problems, or other mental disorders. We can help you or a loved one overcome mental illness and learn how to live a happy life. Call us now at 888-280-4763 for more information about our mental health treatment programs in Boca.