Previous Section
Introduction to Bipolar Disorder
Mania and Depression in Bipolar Disorder
Warning signs that a person with bipolar disorder may be contemplating suicide include:
- Speaking of feeling suicidal or wanting to die
- Putting affairs in order
- Giving away belongings
- Writing a suicide note
- Feeling helpless
- Feeling hopeless
- Drug abuse
- Feeling as if the patient is a burden on the family
- Sudden change in personality
- Participation in high risk activity
- Personal crisis
If anyone suspects that a bipolar patient may be suicidal, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) suggests taking 3 steps:
- IMMEDIATELY call a doctor, emergency room, or 911
- Make sure the suicidal person is not left alone
- Make sure to prevent the person from gaining access to drugs, weapons or any other substance that could cause harm (e.g., household chemicals)
Patients who pose an immediate serious threat to themselves or others around them may require immediate hospitalization.
