The Syrian Future Movement commemorates World Bipolar Day, which falls on Monday, March 30, 2026, the anniversary of the birth of artist Vincent van Gogh, who suffered from this disorder. The day aims to raise awareness of this mental illness, combat social stigma, and support those affected and their families. Bipolar disorder affects approximately one in 200 people worldwide (about 0.5% of the population).
The Syrian Future Movement believes that the vital role of this day is crucial in Syria, which is suffering from a severe mental health crisis as a result of conflict, displacement, and disasters. According to World Health Organization reports, there has been an 80% increase in cases of depression and a 70% increase in anxiety disorders. It is estimated that about 20% of the population in northwest Syria (approximately one million people) suffer from mental disorders. While statistics for other Syrian regions are unavailable, these figures can be used as a basis for generalizing the statistics to the rest of Syria.
The Syrian Future Movement emphasizes that mental health during this transitional phase is not a luxury, but a fundamental national priority for building a stable and resilient society. We believe that bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions are exacerbated by socioeconomic circumstances, and addressing them requires a comprehensive approach that integrates mental health into reconstruction and return programs.
The Syrian Future Movement emphasizes that combating the social stigma surrounding mental illness is essential for building trust in new institutions, and that the Syria of the future must be an inclusive society that embraces everyone without discrimination or exclusion.
Based on its national vision and future outlook for building a new Syria, the Syrian Future Movement recommends the following:
- Integrating mental health services into the national health system, while expanding early detection programs and providing free or subsidized treatment for disorders such as bipolar disorder.
- Launching joint national awareness campaigns between the Ministry of Health, civil society, and religious institutions to break down the social stigma and encourage seeking help.
- Training medical and social workers to deal with mental health disorders, with a focus on youth, women, and internally displaced persons as the most vulnerable groups.
- Linking mental health policies to community stabilization and sustainable development plans to ensure that psychological recovery is an integral part of building a civil state.
The Syrian Future Movement affirms that World Bipolar Day reminds us that the Syria of the future can only be built with sound mental health for all its citizens, and that national solidarity and comprehensive care are the way towards a society that overcomes the wounds of the past and builds a future full of hope and dignity.
