Psychologist Reveals Bipolar Disorder After Years of Silence

Berlin, Germany – For years, Sonja Custers, a respected psychologist and psychotherapist, concealed a deeply personal struggle: her own experience with bipolar disorder. Custers, who is based in Belgium, is now breaking her silence, publishing a book titled “Bipolair In Beeld” (Bipolar in Image) in the spring of 2026, aiming to destigmatize the condition and offer a nuanced perspective on living with it. Her decision to come forward comes as awareness of mental health challenges continues to grow globally, and as efforts to improve care for bipolar disorder gain momentum, particularly in Flanders.

The decision to remain private about her diagnosis, Custers has explained, stemmed from a fear of professional repercussions and societal stigma. She likened the situation to a dentist experiencing tooth pain – a professional in a position to understand and treat the condition, yet hesitant to reveal their own vulnerability. This reluctance, she hopes, will be challenged by her openness and the forthcoming publication of her book. Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health condition characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These shifts range from periods of elevated mood and increased energy – known as mania or hypomania – to periods of low mood and decreased energy – known as depression.

Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Beyond the Extremes

Bipolar disorder is a complex condition with varying presentations. As defined by experts, it’s a mood disorder where individuals experience swings between manic and depressive episodes. During a manic phase, individuals may feel unusually energetic, optimistic, and experience racing thoughts. Conversely, a depressive phase is marked by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities. However, the reality for many living with bipolar disorder is not simply a back-and-forth between these extremes, but rather a life lived in the spaces *between* them, navigating the challenges of managing symptoms and maintaining stability.

There are several different types of bipolar disorder, each with its own specific criteria for diagnosis. These include Bipolar I Disorder, defined by manic episodes that last at least seven days, or by manic symptoms that are so severe that hospitalization is required; Bipolar II Disorder, characterized by patterns of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes (a less severe form of mania); and Cyclothymic Disorder, which involves numerous periods of hypomania and mild depression. The appropriate treatment approach varies depending on the specific type of bipolar disorder and the individual’s unique needs.

“Bipolair In Beeld” and the Upcoming World Bipolar Day Event

Custers’ book, “Bipolair In Beeld,” promises to offer a unique and insightful glance into the lived experience of bipolar disorder, combining personal narrative with psychological understanding. The book is expected to provide a compassionate and hopeful perspective, challenging common misconceptions and promoting greater empathy. The title translates to “Bipolar in Image,” suggesting a focus on visualizing and understanding the complexities of the condition.

Adding to the momentum surrounding increased awareness, Ups & Downs, Collectief bipolair, and Zorggroep UPC Duffel are collaborating to host an event on March 30, 2026 – World Bipolar Day – titled “Bipolair in Beeld: Het leven tussen pieken en dalen” (Bipolar in Image: Life between peaks and valleys). Information and registration for the event are available on the UPC Duffel website. The event aims to present a nuanced, human, and hopeful portrayal of bipolar vulnerability, focusing on the experiences of those living with the condition and the importance of support and understanding. It will feature personal stories, societal reflections, and discussions about future initiatives to improve care.

Collective Efforts to Improve Bipolar Disorder Care in Flanders

The event also serves as a platform to introduce Collectief bipolair, a new association dedicated to enhancing the quality of care for individuals with bipolar disorder in Flanders, Belgium. The organization’s efforts will focus on both research and the provision of support services. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for specialized and accessible mental health care in the region. Collectief bipolair aims to advocate for improved resources, training for healthcare professionals, and increased awareness among the general public.

Ups & Downs, another organization involved in the World Bipolar Day event, highlights the power of peer support in connecting individuals, providing encouragement, and breaking down the stigma associated with mental illness. Their work demonstrates the importance of creating safe and supportive communities where people can share their experiences and receive understanding. The organization emphasizes that connecting with others who understand can be a crucial component of recovery and well-being.

The Importance of Family Support and Recovery-Oriented Care

Sonja Preud’homme, a medewerker herstelgerichte zorg (recovery-oriented care worker) at Universitair Psychiatrisch Centrum KU Leuven in Belgium, emphasizes the critical role of family support in the recovery process. Preud’homme’s work focuses on supporting families and ensuring they feel heard and connected to the care team of their loved ones. She draws on her own family experience to provide empathetic guidance and advocate for family-centered care. Her role highlights the growing recognition of the importance of involving families in the treatment process and providing them with the resources they need to support their loved ones effectively.

Recovery-oriented care, as championed by Preud’homme, shifts the focus from simply managing symptoms to empowering individuals to live fulfilling lives despite their mental health challenges. This approach emphasizes hope, resilience, and the importance of setting personal goals. It recognizes that recovery is a unique and individual journey, and that individuals should be actively involved in shaping their own treatment plans.

Key Takeaways

• Breaking the Silence: Psychologist Sonja Custers is publicly sharing her experience with bipolar disorder through her upcoming book, “Bipolair In Beeld,” aiming to reduce stigma.
• World Bipolar Day Event: A collaborative event on March 30, 2026, will bring together personal stories, societal reflections, and future initiatives related to bipolar disorder.
• Improved Care in Flanders: Collectief bipolair is a new association dedicated to enhancing the quality of care for individuals with bipolar disorder in Flanders through research and support services.
• The Power of Support: Organizations like Ups & Downs and the work of Sonja Preud’homme highlight the importance of peer support, family involvement, and recovery-oriented care.

The increasing openness surrounding mental health, exemplified by Custers’ decision to share her story and the collaborative efforts of organizations in Belgium, represents a significant step towards creating a more understanding and supportive society for individuals living with bipolar disorder. As research continues to advance and awareness grows, the hope is that more effective treatments and support systems will become available, empowering individuals to live full and meaningful lives.

The next key date to watch is March 30, 2026, for the World Bipolar Day event hosted by Ups & Downs, Collectief bipolair, and Zorggroep UPC Duffel. We encourage readers to share this article and join the conversation about mental health awareness and support.