For quite some time, the term “bipolar,” has been a bit of a buzzword often used to describe people, actions, or stances on issues. However, bipolar disorder is a real disease. Not only that, but suffers are at a much greater risk of committing suicide than the general population. Why? In this article, we will answer these questions and more. We will attempt to give you a better understanding of bipolar disorder through common terms, as well as through statistics, symptoms, and more. Lastly, we will tell you how to find help and educate yourself.
Bipolar Suicide Statistics
1. It is estimated that over 5 million adults in this country suffer from bipolar disorder.
2. Sadly, over half of the individuals who do end up with bipolar disorder will never be diagnosed.
3. Or, if they are, a correct diagnoses can take up to a decade.
4. Of these who are undiagnosed or untreated, around 20% will commit suicide.
5. To put that into perspective, only about 1% of the general public will take their own lives.
6. Studies show that individuals with bipolar disorder are expected to live about 9 years less than those without the illness.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is the term for a mental illness where a user seems to experience extreme high, followed by crushing lows. These severe changes in mood are not related to anything that is going on in the person’s life at the moment. Sometimes, bipolar disorder is also known as manic depression. Suicide is the top reason for death in individuals with bipolar disorder. Suicide most often occurs in these patients during the extreme lows and depressive states. This disorder can effect anyone at any time, regardless of overall health, gender, ethnicity, race, socioeconomic status, or age.
What Puts Bipolar Patients at Risk?
Lots of different factors put bipolar patients at risk. Many are not diagnosed at all, and receive no treatment. Misdiagnoses of the illness is also common. Most men with bipolar disorder are misdiagnosed with schizophrenia. Most women with the issue are misdiagnosed with depression. This can be bad news for both groups. Why? The longer a patient with bipolar disorder goes without being diagnosed and receiving treatment, the more likely a patient is to commit suicide. Patients who have already been diagnosed with depression are nearly ¼ more likely to develop bipolar disorder within the first 5 years. By far, depression is the largest risk factor for developing bipolar disorder, more so than anything else yet found.
Spotting Issues
How can you spot if someone has bipolar disorder? Here are some warning signs:
1. Periods of mania, which can be classified as:
o Periods with needs for little or no sleep, but the person still has lots of energy.
o Periods with problems concentrating where one can be easily distracted.
o Times where the individual talks very fast (so fast others cannot understand).
o Periods with racing thoughts.
o Times where reckless behavior is common.
o Times when the patients seems to feel more powerful and great than usual.
2. Hypomania, where the mood is elevated.
3. Depression, where sleeping habits, eating habits, and attitudes toward things may change. Patients in this phase seem more irritable. Often, those who are depressed no longer love the things that they regularly seem passionate about. In some cases, patients may even experience hallucinations.
4. Mixed episodes, where both a high and a low are experienced during a very short period or time, or even at the same time.
Seeking Medical Attention
If you think you may have bipolar disorder, visit your doctor. But be aware that getting properly diagnosed with this disorder may take time. If you are diagnosed, be sure to follow the treatment regimen as outlined by your doctor. At any time you experience thoughts of suicide, or even suicide ideation, be sure to alert a medical professional. Or, if you are uncomfortable with that, let a loved one and/or authority figure know. It is entirely possible that they can help you find help, as well. Suicide is never the way. If you find that anyone has attempted suicide, be sure to call emergency medical services immediately. Doing so could be the difference between life and death.
Learning More
To learn more about bipolar disorder, or bipolar disorder statistics, ask your doctor. They can put you in touch with reputable resources, or refer you to someone who can help, if needed. You can find much more research and information about bipolar disorder suicide online and in medical and mental health journals. You can find these resources through search engines, or at your local library. Although there is currently no cure for this disorder, treatment can and will help. Over time, you can gain control of your life again, or have your loved ones back.