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Learning About Bipolar Disorder

• What is Bipolar Disorder
  • Bipolar Disorder Causes
  • Bipolar Disorder Symptoms
  • Myths and Facts about Bipolar Disorder
  • Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder
• Living with Bipolar Disorder
  • Help Prevent Common Triggers
  • My severe episode plan
  • My Daily Routine
  • Resources
• Support For Family & Friends
  • Living With Bipolar Disorder
  • What can I do to help?
  • Suicide Warning Signs
  • How Can I Take Care of Myself?
  • How STAVZOR May Help
  • Caregiver Diary

Suicide Warning Signs

Suicide is a serious risk for individuals with bipolar disorder, particularly during a depressive episode. That's why it's important to be able to recognize the warning signs of suicide and be prepared to do something about them.

Keep in mind that your loved one's suicidal thoughts are related to the fluctuations in brain chemistry associated with bipolar disorder.

As the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance points out, suicidal thoughts are not "reality." They are the expression of a treatable mental illness.

And remember, you're not alone. Help is available from your loved one's doctor and from suicide prevention hotlines.

Recognize suicide warning signs

Always take your loved one's suicidal behavior seriously. The following are warning signs of suicide:

• Talking about or taking physical action to hurt or kill oneself
• Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, pills, or other means
• Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide
• Talking about feelings of hopelessness
• Talking about feelings of rage, anger or wanting revenge
• Talking about feelings of anxiety or agitation
• Acting recklessly or engaging in risky activities
• Increasing alcohol or drug use
• Withdrawing from friends, family and society
• Appearing to experience dramatic mood changes
• Being unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
• Giving personal possessions away
• Making a will
• Expressing feelings that "there is no reason for living" or "there is no purpose in life"

What I can do to help

Here are suggestions about what to do if your loved one exhibits suicide warning signs:

• Keep the numbers of the National Suicide Prevention Hotline and doctor near the phone. Be ready to make a call for your loved one. Let your loved one know you are going to get help.
• Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about the warning signs your loved one may be exhibiting. Try not to act shocked, since this can create emotional distance between you.
• Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings and show you accept the feelings. Say "I care and I want to help. What can I do?"
• Be nonjudgmental. Don't debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether your loved one's feelings are good or bad. Don't lecture on the value of life or say "You have so much to live for."
• Don't be sworn to secrecy. Seek support from the doctor or a suicide prevention hotline.
• Offer hope that alternatives are available, but avoid glib reassurances.
• Never leave a person at high risk for suicide alone.
• Take action. Remove any means of suicide, such as guns or stockpiled pills.

Remember, help is available. Treat signs of suicidal behavior seriously, and seek immediate help from National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or your loved one's doctor.