While the exact cause for bipolar disorder is not known, researchers believe it is the result of an imbalance in certain chemicals in the brain. Bipolar disorder tends to run in families and more than two-thirds of people with bipolar disorder have at least one close relative with the disorder or with major depression. However genetics cannot completely explain who gets the disease and who does not. It may be that the development of the illness is due to a process of sensitisation (kindling). This idea suggests that the first episodes of illness are induced or 'triggered' by a major change or stressful event, but that each episode causes changes in the brain that make the person more likely to have another episode, which eventually leads to spontaneously occurring episodes.
What is the relationship between bipolar disorder and suicidal tendencies?
The most serious risk of bipolar disorder is suicide, which is most often associated with the depressive episode. It has been reported that 25-50% of people with bipolar disorder attempt suicide at some point in the course of their illness. Without effective treatment bipolar disorder may lead to suicide in nearly 10-15% of cases, making it one of the most serious and fatal psychiatric illnesses. Early diagnosis and long-term treatment of people with bipolar disorder is extremely important in order to decrease the risk of suicide.
What are the signs of suicide risk?
- Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness
- Extreme withdrawal from friends, family, and usual activities
- Talking about suicide or "ending it all"
- Self-destructive or risk-taking behaviour
- Giving away favourite possessions
- Sudden changes in mood or behaviour
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Identification with someone who has committed suicide
- Preoccupation with thoughts of death
- Previous suicide attempt(s)
How to help someone showing signs of suicide risk?
Suicidal people may give clues about their feelings. Don't be afraid to ask someone you are worried about if he or she is thinking of taking his or her own life. You cannot make someone suicidal by asking a direct, caring question about this.
Tell your loved one that you are worried and give specific reasons why. Stress that he or she is very important to you and to other people. Encourage that person to get help from a psychiatrist, social worker, clergy member, or other mental health professionals.
How to deal with signs of suicide risk
- Stay calm. Don't overreact.
- Express concern. Take your friend or family member seriously. Explain why you are worried. Be specific.
- Listen attentively. Maintain eye contact.
- Ask direct questions. It is important to find out if your friend has a specific plan for suicide.
- Acknowledge feelings. Do not be judgmental. Don't take it personally if you can't help your friend "cheer up".
- Reassure. Stress that suicide is a permanent act in response to temporary problems. Remind your friend that there is always hope, and things can and will get better.
- Don't promise confidentiality. You may need to consult others, or talk to your friend's doctor about the signs of suicide you have identified.
- Take action, involve others. Don't attempt to handle this alone. Consult others who are trained to help and deal with warning signs of suicide.
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bipolar disorder
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diagnosis of bipolar disorder>>
Item code: NPR/08-0048
Date of Preparation: July 2009
