- 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:
