Bipolar Disorders in Saudi Arabia: What Do We Know So Far?

Bipolar disorders (BP) are prevalent neuropsychiatric illnesses affecting 1%-5% of the global population and about 3% of the Saudi population. They are associated with significant comorbidities and negative consequences. Despite being common mental health conditions in Saudi Arabia, stigma persists, with weak character, supernatural beliefs, and weak faith considered as causes. In addition, Saudi patients with BP have been reported to seek help from non-psychiatric healthcare professionals and faith healers. More data are required on BP from Saudi Arabia, including the genetic aspects and their treatment approaches. This narrative review paper explores the epidemiology and clinical manifestations, etiology and biological mechanisms, public knowledge and awareness of the illnesses, and treatment of BP in Saudi Arabia.