#Bipolardisorder can involve symptoms of #depression, which sometimes can lead to thoughts of #suicide. Support is available.
Not everyone who lives with bipolar disorder experiences the condition in the same way. But for those who experience intense depressive episodes, thinking about the end of life can be recurrent.
#Bipolardisorder is a manageable condition, and treatment is available and effective. What you feel is valid, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. You’re not alone.
A word of caution
#Suicide is a difficult topic, and it’s natural to experience intense emotions when reading about it.
While it is possible for someone with #bipolardisorder to think about #suicide, this isn’t always the case.
The information in this article comes from reputable sources and has been reviewed by a medical expert. Still, no expert information can replace your personal experience and how you navigate your #mentalhealthcondition.
If you’ve been thinking about #suicide or suspect someone you love has, you’re not alone. Consider reaching out for support:
- Visit Psych Central’s #SuicidePrevention Resources
- Call a crisis hotline, such as the #NationalSuicidePreventionLifeline at 800-273-8255.
- Text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
- Call or text the Postpartum Support International Help Line at 800-944-4773 (#1 Español, #2 English)
- Contat the #TrevorProject if you’re LGBTQIA+ and under 25 years old. Call 866-488-7386, text START to 678678, or chat online 24-7.
- Contact the #VeteransCrisisLine. Call 800-273-8255, text 838255, or chat online 24-7.
- Use the Befrienders Worldwide database to find a helpline in your country.
- Contact the DeafLEAD Crisis Line. Call 321-800-DEAF (3323) or text HAND at 839863.
PSYCH CENTRAL RESOURCES
Get a deeper understanding of trauma and #PTSD
Sign up for our 5-day series and learn about the science behind trauma from a licensed #psychologist.
Are people with #bipolardisorder more likely to think of #suicide?
#Bipolardisorder has the highest rate of #suicide among all #mentalhealthconditions. This rate is about 10 to 30 times Trusted Source higher in people living with #bipolardisorder than in the general population.
As many as 60%Trusted Source of people with the condition have attempted to end their lives at least once.
Still, #bipolardisorder symptoms manifest differently from person to person, and not everyone with the condition will think of or attempt #suicide.
“Self-harm #behavior is highest in individuals [living with #bipolardisorder] who have the personality trait of impulsivity,” explains Stephanie Wijkstrom, a professional #mentalhealthcounselor in Pittsburg.
The more impulsive someone with the condition is, the more likely they may be to engage in thoughts of #suicide and self-harming #behaviors, she adds.
Impulsivity is typically associated with episodes of mania. However, it can also manifest during phases of #depression. Thoughts of #suicide are more common during these depressive episodes.
Because of this, researchTrusted Source suggests thoughts of #suicide are more recurrent for people living with #bipolar II disorder, which involves longer episodes of #depression.
It’s important to keep in mind that impulsivity alone isn’t a predicting factor for thoughts or attempts of #suicide.
In a recent study, researchers found that impulsivity wasn’t the main factor in #suicidalthoughts in people with #bipolardisorder. Still, it could play a role when other personality traits, such as high empathy, and substance use disorder were also present.
#Bipolar I disorder vs. #bipolar II disorder
In general, #bipolardisorder always involves intense mood episodes. These could be between #depression and mania, or between #depression and hypomania.
#Bipolardisorder is diagnosed when you go through at least 1 episode of mania that lasts at least 7 days. This episode may present with symptoms of psychosis and could require hospitalization. Sometimes, you won’t experience major episodes of #depression.
Bipolar II disorder, on the other hand, typically involves changes in mood that shifts from #depression to hypomania. You will also experience symptoms of #depression that last 2 weeks or longer.
#Suicide as a symptom in #bipolardisorder
Thoughts of #suicide and self-harming #behaviors can be symptoms of #bipolardisorder, although not everyone with the condition experiences them.
Many factors may contribute to someone experiencing #suicideideation or the desire to #self-harm while living with #bipolardisorder.
Systematic review data suggests these #behaviors in #bipolardisorder may be influenced by:
- family history of #suicide
- early onset of #bipolardisorder
- progressive severity of mood episodes
- the extent of depressive symptoms
- rapid changes in mood
- coexisting #mentalhealthdisorders
- #substanceusedisorder
The #suicide safety plan
If you think often about #suicide during an episode of #depression, consider creating a safety plan that you could use during those times.
A safety plan often involves:
- a list of situations, moods, #behaviors, and images that may help you recognize when you may be more likely to engage in these thoughts
- coping strategies the help prevent self-harm
- contact information for family and friends who are ready to provide support
- names and numbers of #mentalhealthprofessionals, care networks, and emergency assistance
- a safe environment to go where #self-harm options are limited
How to help someone with #bipolardisorder who thinks of #suicide
Dr. Benjamin Gibson, a pharmacist and functional medicine specialist in San Antonio, says, “We all feel bad on any given day when reality doesn’t meet expectations.”
When you’re supporting someone who lives with #bipolardisorder, it’s important to remember that “bad days” for them may mean severe adverse thoughts and #self-harm #behaviors.
Also, #bipolardisorder may require professional support. If you’re not trained to treat #bipolardisorder, there’s only so much you can do.
Gibson and Wijkstrom say you can support someone during these times by:
Being a mediator
When someone is experiencing #suicideideation, they may know that help is needed, but they may not reach out.
You may want to learn more about #bipolardisorder. This can help you recognize some of the symptoms.
If someone you love is going through a mood episode, you can help them get the support they need. For example, you could make the calls or drive them to their #healthprofessional or support group.
#James Donaldson notes:
Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.
Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.
Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space. #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle
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Reminding them this is a symptom, not reality
Wijkstrom says that a common statement among people who’ve attempted #suicide is that they believe the world will be better off without them.
You might want to validate how they feel and suggest that these thoughts are influenced by the condition and may not be how others feel. This is a feeling coming from a symptom, not reality.
Consider talking about how symptoms of #bipolardisorder can be managed, and when this happens, they might feel differently. It may be important not to act on a temporary feeling.
Helping provide the ‘safe space’
If you know someone considering #suicide, try to provide immediate support. This means being available in person on short notice.
Once you’re with them, you can scan the room and remove any possible #self-harm tools. You can also practice ways to provide comfort in a moment of intense emotions. This can help you be there for them while waiting for emergency care services if needed.
If you find staying in the same place challenging, consider having a backup plan so that you can take them to a location where they feel safe and comforted.
Let’s recap
For some people, living with #bipolardisorder may mean thinking about #self-harm and #suicide, particularly during episodes of #depression.
You might feel confused and afraid when these thoughts appear. This is #depression talking to you. But #depression and #bipolardisorder can be managed.
Treatment for #bipolardisorder can help with these feelings. Things can improve and support is available.
James Donaldson is a Washington State University graduate (’79). After an outstanding basketball career with WSU, he went on to play professional basketball in the NBA with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, and Utah Jazz. He also played for several teams in the European Leagues in Spain, Italy, and Greece, and he toured with The Harlem Globetrotters to wrap up his career. James was an NBA All-Star in 1988 while playing center for the Dallas Mavericks. In 2006, James was inducted into the Pac-10 Sports Hall of Fame and also the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2010, James was elected as a board member for the NBA Retired Players Association.
James frequently conducts speaking engagements (motivational, inspirational, educational) for organizations, schools, and youth groups.
In 2010, James was the recipient of the NBA Legends of Basketball ABC Award, awarded for outstanding contributions in Athletics–Business–Community.
He believes in being a role model for success and professionalism to the scores of young people to whom he devotes so much of his time. He currently serves on several boards and committees and is a member of many organizations.
James believes in developing relationships that create a “Win-Win” environment for everyone involved, and in being the best he can be!
For more information about James Donaldson or to request he speak at your event, contact him at:
www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
1-800-745-3161 (voicemail & fax)
James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” and “Celebrating Your Gift of Life” and founder of the Your Gift of Life Foundation which focuses on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, especially pertaining to our school aged children and men.
If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at jamesd@yourgiftoflife.org and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161. Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at www.yourgiftoflife.org
