At this time of year everyone experiences an extra strain on their mental wellbeing; we all could use a little lift during this time, even if it is only in the form of a sparkly jumper. For many people, however, things just aren't that simple. 

My beautiful friend Jo became the biggest champion at a very early age of my glittery attire (or anything that brought a smile to other people for that matter - hardly surprising as a stand-up comedian and comic actress). She was diagnosed with Bipolar as a teenager, and in turn needed people to champion, support and care for her. Bipolar UK is an amazing charity trying to do exactly that for everyone affected by this disorder. 

There are all sorts of statistics and information on the Bipolar UK website (https://www.bipolaruk.org/ - do check it out), but to summarise:

• More than a million people in the UK have bipolar. That’s one in fifty people. Jo was my one in fifty at high school. I know many more people now, so clearly I know many more with bipolar. You will too. 
• It takes an average of ten and a half years to get a correct diagnosis of bipolar. Jo was one of the lucky ones. Her fiancé wasn't diagnosed until after the age of 30. 
• Bipolar increases an individual’s risk of suicide by up to 20 times. Jo lost her battle on the 26th November 2014. In losing her, its up to us to take up the battle in our own ways.