A 5km-walk through the streets of Mmabatho marked more than just a physical challenge – it was a call to recognise and understand the realities of bipolar disorder and autism spectrum disorder.

On 30 April 2025, members of the Lifestyle Diseases research focus area at the North-West University (NWU) joined forces with the Mahikeng Provincial Hospital, Kgatelopele Wellness Centre and the North West College of Nursing to host a mental health awareness campaign under the theme “Ending the stigma through embracing our differences”.

Although World Bipolar Day and World Autism Awareness Day are observed on 30 March and 2 April respectively, the combined event amplified the voices of the stakeholders involved. They included non-governmental organisations such as Autism South Africa and government departments and agencies such as Health, Education, Social Development and the South African Police Service.

Dr Gopolang Gause, a representative of the research focus area, said the aim was to bring attention to the symptoms, causes and treatment options related to the two mental health conditions.

“Our goal is to educate the public and reduce stigma. Through psychoeducation and lifestyle modification, we can shift public understanding and attitudes toward bipolar disorder and autism,” said Dr Gause.

The programme included a talk by a psychiatrist from Bophelong Psychiatric Hospital, who outlined how the conditions typically present and the kind of support available in the public healthcare system.

Adding a personal perspective, a mother of a child living with autism and an individual diagnosed with bipolar disorder shared their lived experiences with the audience.

“Speaking about it helps us feel seen. It’s not about labels; it’s about learning how to live,” they said.

The event closed with reflections on the importance of early intervention, support systems and continuous awareness campaigns that go beyond a single day on the calendar.

Members of the NWU’s Lifestyle Diseases research focus area participated in a mental health awareness campaign. From left are Koketso Rankudu, Ellen Tlhojane, Dr Gopolang Gause, Tsholofelo Shophi, and Hellen Olugondae.

Dr Gopolang Gause unpacks the purpose of the day.