Manic Depressive Disorder And Suicide

Manic Depressive Disorder (Bipolar disorder) can be fatal at the hands of those who suffer from the condition. People with bipolar disorder are at an increased risk for suicide. Someone with bipolar disorder who is severely depressed may also hear voices encouraging them to commit suicide.

The National Mental Health Association, an organization in the United States devoted to educating the public about mental illnesses, reports that 30%-70% of suicide victims have suffered from a form of depression. Men commit almost 75% of suicides, even though twice as many women attempt it. Risk for suicide appears to be higher earlier in the course of the illness. Recognizing bipolar disorder early and learning how to manage it is key to decreasing the risk of suicide.

If you or a loved on has bipolar disorder, there are risk factors for suicide that you should know. These risk factors include having a substance abuse problem, a previous suicide attempt, having a family history of physical or sexual abuse, having family members or friends who have attempted suicide, and keeping a firearm in the home.

If you or someone you know is at risk for suicide and has shown warning signs, do not leave them alone. Seek the help of a mental healthcare professional right away. People often talk about suicide before they attempt it, so pay close attention to what they are saying. While some suicide attempts are carefully planned over time, others are impulsive acts that have not been well thought out. Either way, it is important to understand that suicidal feelings and actions are symptoms of an illness that can be treated. Suicidal thoughts and feelings can be overcome with proper treatment.

People with bipolar disorder may become overwhelmed with suicidal ideation during a depressive episode. If you know someone who is depressed, you should watch for warning signs of an impending suicide. Some warning signs of suicide are talking about suicide or having a wish to die, always talking or thinking about death, making comments about being hopeless, helpless, or worthless, saying things like "It would be better if I wasn't here" or "I want out," having a death wish or engaging in extremely risky behavior, a loss of interest in things they used to care deeply about, visiting people they care about, writing or changing a will, or worsening depression. The depressed person may have a sudden switch from being very sad to being very calm or appearing to be happy. Do not assume that this means that the person is better. Quite the opposite may be true. They may have made and accepted plans to commit suicide and have some sense of peace with these plans.

A potential suicide attempt is an emergency. Call 911 if you feel unable to stop yourself from harming yourself or if you have a desire to commit suicide. Call 911 if you hear voices. Call 911 if someone you know mentions wanting to commit suicide. You may feel uneasy with calling 911. But, bipolar disorder and depression are serious conditions. If there is a risk of suicide, it is better to call emergency services and let healthcare professionals determine if there is a danger of suicide.

Next article: When Depressed People Kill Their Children