This article was written by Guest Blogger: Tracy Ruff

Bipolar disorder is one of the most debilitating mental illnesses that can severely impact one’s life. In terms of causes of disability, bipolar disorder is ranked in the top 10 in developed countries. At any one time, up to 51 million people worldwide have the disorder and its prevalence rate is approximately 1.1% of the global population.

While this figure may not seem like much when compared to other chronic illnesses (40% of the world’s population has hypertension, for example); it is imperative for the general public to understand just how serious the condition is. This is why on the 30 March various global initiatives will be celebrating World Bipolar Day to increase awareness and challenge the terrible stigma associated with the disorder.

Studies show that between 10% and 40% of women will be afflicted by postpartum depression. If one takes the lowest figure of 10%, there are at least 50 000 new cases of postpartum depression per year in South Africa alone. The real tragedy is that for many of these women, it is never even picked up, because despite the considerable number of cases, the condition generally remains undiagnosed and untreated.

Postpartum depression does not only affect the mother – it can affect the entire family – so it is time we all understood more about the illness to play our part in recognising and defeating this highly treatable and avoidable condition.

Article as it appeared in Vrouekeur magazine. By Carien Grobler (Translated into English)

People suffering from kleptomania often spend their lives keeping silent about their condition out of fear of the shame it may bring.

Article as it appeared in Vroukeur magazine. By Lize Maritz (Translated into English)

Exposure to trauma as a child, such as witnessing your parents ongoing violence towards each other, may have repercussions in your adult life. Most adults, however, do not associate their adult behavioural patterns with their childhood trauma. Understanding this link empowers you to make powerful changes in your life.

Article as it appeared in the Vrouekeur magazine. By Lize Maritz (Translated into English)

Sex addiction has recently been a focus of media attention and many people are asking the question: "Is sex addiction a real disorder or just an excuse?"

Sex addiction is a real disorder, but it may not manifest itself in the way that the average person thinks - that is, it is not necessarily about engaging in the actual act of sex frequently. A person can be classified as a sex addict without in fact having any physical sex at all!

Article as it appeared in Vrouekeur magazine. By Lize Maritz (Translated into English)

There are thousands of people suffering from depression and many do not receive treatment. Their partners, however, suffer too and even less is said or done for them. This article is for the partners of those who suffer from depression.