Creativity and Bipolar Disorder
It is well-known that people with bipolar disorder are over-represented among highly creative populations. Kay Redfield Jamison’s work documents the striking number of musicians, artists, and poets who have suffered from bipolar disorder. Less is known about why bipolar disorder seems to promote creativity. Understanding this has important implications for reducing stigma, enhancing the creative accomplishments in this population, and designing bipolar treatments that help support creative goals.
Dr. Johnson is the science director for the Sean Costello fund, dedicated to enhancing research on the links of bipolar disorder with creativity, particularly among musicians. This fund was created in memory of Sean Costello, an extremely talented blues musician who struggled with bipolar disorder throughout his life.
As science director, Dr. Johnson fosters networks of interested scientists and helps generate collaborations focused on these important topics.
If you are interested in learning more about the foundation, please see http://www.seancostellofund.org/ or email us at Calmprogram@gmail.com.