Ruby Wax Says Britain Doesn't Need to 'Toughen Up' Due to Bipolar Disorder

Comedian Ruby Wax, 72, says Britain doesn't need to 'toughen up'. She believes conditions like bipolar disorder cannot be overcome by simply being stronger.
By Newsroom | Mental Health, Society |

Comedian, long vocal about her own mental health battles, counters narrative of national grit as unproductive.

Ruby Wax, the 72-year-old comedian known for her candid discussions of bipolar disorder and depression, has publicly stated that Britain "doesn't need to toughen up." This assertion comes in the wake of a recent political warning from the Labour party about a "lost generation on benefits." Wax's commentary directly challenges the prevailing sentiment that increased national resilience, particularly among those struggling with mental health conditions, is a solution. Wax insists that conditions like bipolar disorder are not amenable to simply "toughening up," drawing parallels to the impossibility of faking serious medical diagnoses.

Ruby Wax says Britain 'doesn't need to toughen up' as she defends those with bipolar disorders after Labour's 'lost generation on benefits' warning - 1

Wax's stance is rooted in her personal experiences with bipolar disorder and depression, conditions she has managed for decades. She has consistently highlighted that these are not matters of personal failing or a lack of fortitude, but significant health challenges requiring specific understanding and support. Her public advocacy, including stage shows and appearances, aims to destigmatize mental illness and foster a more empathetic societal response. "You can't fake bipolar any more than you can fake cancer," she stated, emphasizing the tangible reality of her conditions. She further suggests that the "cruelty of America is not something to aspire to," implying a critique of potential overly harsh societal attitudes.

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Ruby Wax says Britain 'doesn't need to toughen up' as she defends those with bipolar disorders after Labour's 'lost generation on benefits' warning - 2

Wax has spoken about her journey through various media, often using humor as a tool to discuss serious subjects. She noted that depression, which she first experienced in childhood, is far from simply being sad. Her one-woman shows, like "I'm Not As Well As I Thought I Was," have served as platforms for sharing these experiences, sometimes inviting audience participation to discuss their own mental health journeys. She credits psychiatrists with a significant role in her ability to manage her mental health, noting that medication has been a key component for much of her adult life, though she has experienced relapses.

Ruby Wax says Britain 'doesn't need to toughen up' as she defends those with bipolar disorders after Labour's 'lost generation on benefits' warning - 3

The comedian's engagement with mental health advocacy extends to organizations and public campaigns. She has been associated with Comic Relief, though she has also expressed feeling "mortified" when her image was used in a way she perceived as "outing" her struggles. Her broader objective, she has indicated, is not to be seen as a "whiner" but to use humor to convey messages about mental well-being and capture audience attention. She has also participated in diverse experiences, from monastery retreats to fieldwork in Afghanistan, all while managing her mental health. Wax suggests that by observing one's thoughts rather than "obeying them," individuals can achieve a sense of freedom and presence, contributing to peace and, potentially, happiness.

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Ruby Wax says Britain 'doesn't need to toughen up' as she defends those with bipolar disorders after Labour's 'lost generation on benefits' warning - 4

For those in need of support, services like Samaritans offer assistance via phone at 116 123 or email at [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Ruby Wax say Britain doesn't need to 'toughen up'?
Comedian Ruby Wax, who has bipolar disorder, stated that Britain doesn't need to 'toughen up'. She feels this idea is wrong, especially for people with mental health conditions.
Q: What did Ruby Wax say about bipolar disorder and toughening up?
Ruby Wax explained that you cannot 'fake' bipolar disorder any more than you can fake cancer. She believes mental health conditions require understanding and support, not just being tougher.
Q: What is Ruby Wax's personal experience with mental health?
Ruby Wax has lived with bipolar disorder and depression for many years. She uses her experiences, often with humor, to talk about mental health and help others feel less alone.
Q: What does Ruby Wax think about the idea of a 'lost generation on benefits'?
Ruby Wax's comments challenge the idea that people on benefits just need to 'toughen up'. She believes this overlooks the real struggles of mental health conditions and doesn't offer real solutions.
Q: Where can people get mental health support in the UK?
If you need mental health support, you can contact Samaritans. They can be reached by phone at 116 123 or by email at [email protected].