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Financial difficulties and mental health challenges are often deeply connected. That’s why, when we support someone living with bipolar, we want to make sure they also know about the wider help available to them.

The following guide has been written by Bipolar UK, one of our partner charities, to explain what happens if you’re referred to them, or if you choose to reach out directly.

If we refer you to Bipolar UK, or you’re thinking of contacting them yourself, here’s what you can expect.

Who is Bipolar UK?

Bipolar UK is the only national charity dedicated to supporting people affected by bipolar in the UK. We offer free support to anyone who has a diagnosis of bipolar, who thinks they may have bipolar, or who has a loved one, friend or colleague living with the condition.

What kind of support does Bipolar UK offer?

Bipolar UK offers several ways to connect and get help, so you can choose what feels right for you.

1. Peer Support Line and email service

If you want one‑to‑one support, Bipolar UK’s Peer Support Line is a helpful place to begin. Everyone on the team either has bipolar disorder themselves or has a personal connection. They’ll listen openly and offer guidance and information depending on your situation.

They can share practical tools for managing bipolar, tips for supporting someone else, strategies for staying well, and signpost you to other services where needed.

2. Online Community

If you prefer to connect anonymously or in writing, our eCommunity Conversations forum is a supportive online space where you can share your experiences. It’s available 24/7, 365 days a year, and moderated by trained staff with lived experience of bipolar.

3. Peer support groups

Bipolar UK has been running free support groups for people affected by bipolar disorder across the UK for over 40 years. Meeting others, either online or in-person, can help you feel understood and less alone. You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with.

More

You can find supportive information about different aspects of living with bipolar, including managing money, at bipolaruk.org.

How does the partnership with PayPlan and Bipolar UK work?

Financial stress and bipolar disorder can create a difficult cycle. Many people in the bipolar community tell us they feel anxious about money, regret past spending decisions, or worry about debt and finances. Navigating the benefits system can be hard when stable and well, and even harder when you’re not.

At Bipolar UK, our peer support team sees this come up time and time again. While we can offer understanding and emotional support, we’re not financial experts. That’s why we work in partnership with PayPlan, who can provide free, expert money and debt advice alongside the mental health support we offer.

What if I’m supporting someone with bipolar?

Bipolar UK’s services aren’t just for people with a diagnosis of bipolar. All our support is open to anyone affected, including family members, friends, carers and colleagues.

What happens if I’m in crisis?

It’s important to know that while Bipolar UK is here for everyone affected by bipolar, we don’t offer crisis support.

If you or someone else is at immediate risk, call 999. You can also contact Samaritans on 116 123, or NHS 111 for urgent advice.

Ready to reach out?

Taking the first step can feel daunting, but our team understands exactly how difficult things can be. There’s a supportive and welcoming community ready to help you.

Visit bipolaruk.org/get-support to find the right support that’s right for you.

 

Bipolar UK and PayPlan work together because we believe financial wellbeing and mental health go hand in hand, and that people deserve support for both.