Page 35 - NAMAH-Apr-2023

An Integral Psychology Perspective on Bipolar Disorder

Manoj Pavithran

Abstract
This paper is an attempt to use the lens of the Integral Psychology of Sri Aurobindo and
the Mother to gain new insights into the nature of the bipolar disorder, a common mental
health issue that affects nearly 1-2% of the global population. Bipolar disorder can be seen as
a disequilibrium of the vital being, causing an inflated or deflated self-image, bringing with
it extreme mood-swings between hyperactivity and depression. While an inflated ego of
the central vital contributes to hyperactivity, the depressive periods show the presence of a
deflated emotional being, which is more like a wounded child even when chronologically the
person is an adult. These parts of the being remain in the realm of their shadow and emerge
in the context of progress the individual is attempting in life. My proposition here is that
the universal dynamics of the shadow and its opposition to progress, both at an individual and
collective level, is the deep struggle that triggers repressed parts of the vital being to emerge to the
surface and take over the surface personality of the people, thus causing the bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-
depressive illness, is characterised by episodes
of extreme mood-swings that range from
emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows
(depression). During manic or hypomanic
episodes, a person with bipolar disorder may
experience excessive energy and activity,
euphoria, irritability, racing thoughts, engage
in risky impulsive behaviour, and difficulty
sleeping. Depressive episodes are characterised
by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, loss of
interest in activities, changes in appetite and
sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, and
thoughts of suicide.

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