Living and Thriving with Bipolar Disorder: Dave Westgate on Mental Health, Work and Normality

What does it really mean to live with bipolar disorder and still build a long, successful career?

In this powerful and honest conversation, Nick sits down with Dave Westgate, mental health advocate, Mental Health First Aid instructor and former advertising creative, to talk openly about living with bipolar disorder for over 35 years.

Dave shares his lived experience of bipolar 1, the long road to diagnosis, the reality of manic and depressive episodes, and why “boring, stable normality” beats the romanticised idea of mania every time.

Together, Nick and Dave explore mental health in the workplace, the hidden cost of wearing a mask in corporate life, and why anxiety can be just as debilitating as depression.

This episode dives deep into:

• Bipolar disorder explained through lived experience

• Mental health stigma in corporate and male dominated workplaces

• Anxiety, depression and panic attacks

• Mental health recovery and medication journeys

• Leadership vulnerability and psychological safety at work

• Why lived experience matters in mental health education

• Men’s mental health and asking for help

A must listen for anyone navigating mental illness, supporting someone with bipolar disorder, or working to create healthier, more human workplaces.

🎧 If you or someone you care about is struggling, help is available. In Australia, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.