Understanding Bipolar Disorder

Abstract

This chapter aimed at establishing a conceptual understanding of bipolar disorder from an African perspective. The authors will examine how literature presents discourses on bipolar disorder (its originality, causes, characteristics, and management) from an African perspective and will then reflect on the consequences of the findings. The chapter adopted the qualitative research approach using document analysis to review existing literature around the bipolar disorder, first as it is understood elsewhere, and second, as it is understood in an African context. The analytic procedure entailed finding, selecting, appraising, and synthesizing data contained in documents. This approach is rooted in a critical paradigm that enables researchers to critique conventional and dominant discourses of knowledge on the subject and develop their own appraisal and judgment of the issues (Asghar, 2013). Literature suggests that Africa has not done enough on the bipolar disorder condition and is still more reliant on Western diagnosis and treatment.