[The cost of bipolar disorder: our situation]

Recent studies are showing that prevalence of Bipolar Disorders is higher than traditionally admitted, and that their costs are equal, at least, to those arising from schizophrenia. In our region, these disorders may be considered as an epidemic in the few next years, according the epidemiological approach. Nevertheless, the very few available data in our country show a serious deficit in diagnosis, treatment and information available for the users. In this context, the inertia of government is critical in generating specific policies aimed to control these disorders. Facing this challenge, needed information should be achieved in order to be able of establishing rational policies and strategies thus increasing general information about this problem, involving the users.