Through a Cultural Lens: Rethinking Bipolar Disorder
Friday, September 26, 2025 (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) (EDT)
Description
Bipolar Disorder is one of the most frequently misdiagnosed mental health conditions, and cultural factors play a significant role in shaping how symptoms are expressed, understood, and treated. Too often, cultural norms, communication styles, and systemic biases lead to misunderstandings that impact diagnosis and care. This 3-hour interactive training is designed for mental health professionals, educators, and leaders who want to deepen their cultural competence in the assessment and understanding of Bipolar Disorder. Participants will explore real-world case studies, engage in live polls, and practice developing culturally responsive interview questions. Through discussion, reflection, and hands-on activities, this training challenges conventional diagnostic approaches and equips attendees with practical strategies to minimize bias, improve diagnostic accuracy, and deliver more compassionate, effective care across diverse populations.9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: 3 hours (includes two 15-minute breaks)
9:00 – 9:15 AM – Welcome & Introduction •Overview of training goals and learning objectives •Icebreaker: Exploring cultural perspectives on mental health
9:15 – 9:45 AM – Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Beyond the DSM •Symptom presentation and diagnostic criteria •Limitations of a one-size-fits-all approach
9:45 – 10:15 AM – Culture’s Role in Symptom Expression •How cultural norms influence mood and behavior interpretation •Case examples of cultural misdiagnosis
10:15 – 10:30 AM – Break #1 (15 min)
10:30 – 11:00 AM – Bias in Diagnosis: Identifying and Addressing Blind Spots •Common diagnostic biases and stereotypes •Group discussion: Biases we’ve witnessed or experienced
11:00 – 11:30 AM – Culturally Responsive Assessment Strategies •Tools and questions to enhance cultural humility •Role of language, stigma, and systemic barriers
11:30 – 11:45 AM – Break #2 (15 min) 1
1:45 AM – 12:00 PM – Action Planning & Wrap-Up •Developing strategies for culturally informed diagnostic practices •Q&A and participant takeaways
Core