If you have
bipolar disorder, call 911or other emergency servicesif you:
- Think you cannot stop from harming yourself or
someone else.
- Hear voices that are new or more upsetting than
normal.
- Want to commit suicide, or you know someone who has
mentioned wanting to commit suicide.
Warning signs of suicide include:
- Use of illegal drugs or drinking alcohol
heavily.
- Talking, writing, or drawing about death, including
writing suicide notes and speaking of items that can cause physical harm, such
as pills, guns, or knives.
- Spending long periods of time
alone.
- Giving away possessions.
- Acting aggressive or
suddenly appearing calm.
Watchful Waiting
Watchful waiting may be enough if a mood episode
has just started and you are taking proper medicines. If your mood episode has
not improved within 2 weeks, call your doctor.
If you have a
loved one who is experiencing a
manic episode and is behaving irrationally, help the
person seek treatment.
Who To See
Bipolar disorder is complex and hard to diagnose
because it has many phases and symptoms. Sometimes it is misdiagnosed as only
depression (unipolar depression) because people are more likely to seek
treatment during a period of depression.
After you are diagnosed
with bipolar disorder, it is important to keep a long-term relationship with
your doctor or therapist to make sure that your treatment is consistent and
that your medicines can be adjusted as needed.
Although other
health professionals can diagnose bipolar disorder, you will probably be
referred to a
psychiatrist who specializes in treating such
disorders and can prescribe medicines and provide counseling. Other health
professionals who can diagnose bipolar disorder include:
Counseling can help you deal with mood changes and the
impact bipolar disorder can have on your work and family relationships. In
addition to psychiatrists, health professionals who can provide counseling
include:
Family member support
If a loved one has bipolar
disorder, it may be helpful for you to get counseling to deal with its impact
on your own life. Manic episodes can be particularly difficult. Consult a
psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, or licensed professional counselor
for your own therapy.
Therapy can also be helpful for a child who
has a bipolar parent. The parent's mood swings may negatively affect the child,
causing tearfulness, anger, depression, or rebellious behavior.
To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.
Last Updated: March 14, 2008 