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Halsey passionately explains why you should never joke about people with bipolar disorder

Halsey passionately explains why you should never joke about people with bipolar disorder
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Halsey has gone on Twitter and implored her followers to show understanding and compassion to people living with bipolar disorder.

The singer said: “No jokes right now. I have dedicated my career to offering education and insight about bipolar disorder and I’m so disturbed by what I’m seeing.”

Personal opinions about someone aside, a manic episode isn’t a joke. If you can’t offer understanding or sympathy, offer your silence.

Halsey went on to tweet that “you can hate someone’s actions or opinions without contributing to stigma that damages an entire community of sometimes vulnerable people all for a couple of laughs.”

The singer has been open in the past about her own struggle with bipolar disorder, and named her latest album 'Manic'.

In response to her tweets, fans agreed with much of what she was saying.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects your moods, which can swing from one extreme to another. It used to be known as manic depression.

People with bipolar can go through periods of depression and "mania", where mood swings in either direction can last for several weeks, or even longer. If you want to read more, there's NHS information available here.

Why do people think Halsey is tweeting about Kanye West?

Kanye West said in 2018 that he had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Over the past few days, the rapper-turned-presidential candidate has made a string of erratic statements on Twitter and at his first campaign rally. People familiar with the disorder have speculated that West might be going through a manic episode, and pleaded with fans to show him compassion.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress and isolation, or are struggling to cope, The Samaritans offers support; you can speak to someone for free over the phone, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.

If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call National Suicide Prevention Helpline on 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The Helpline is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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