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New research conducted by the University of Toronto and in the highlights that among Canadians previously diagnosed with bipolar disorder, 43% were free of all bipolar symptoms and approximately one in four (23.5%) had achieved complete mental health. Despite these encouraging findings, those with a of bipolar disorder were much less likely to be flourishing than their peers.

Three-quarters of those without a history of bipolar disorders were in complete mental health. "Even after accounting for various sociodemographic and , individuals with a history of bipolar disorder still face significant challenges in achieving complete mental health compared to those without such a diagnosis," says author Melanie J. Katz, a researcher at the University of Toronto's Institute for Life Course and Aging.



"Addressing the multifaceted needs of individuals living with bipolar disorder requires a comprehensive approach involving , effective coping strategies, and access to appropriate resources and services." The study, analyzing data from Statistics Canada's Canadian Community Health Survey—Mental Health, compared 555 Canadians with a history of bipolar disorder to 20,530 respondents without such a history. To be considered in complete mental health, participants had to be free from any in the past year, including bipolar disorder, depression and substance use disorders or suicidal ideation.

They also had to report almost daily social and psychological well-being and happiness or life sat.

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