Important Precautions for Bipolar Disorder Patients

Be aware of the possible need for immediate help. People with bipolar disorder - as well as their loved ones - should be aware that there are times when medical attention may be needed immediately. This may mean calling 911 or going to an emergency room. Here are some examples of behaviors that may mean that a person with bipolar disorder is out of control and in need of immediate professional medical care.

• Having thoughts or making plans for taking one's own life
• Doing things to hurt one's self
• Acting violently toward people, pets, or property
• Not eating
• Unable to care for self

Get help for alcohol or substance abuse problems. More than 60 percent of people with bipolar disorder also suffer from alcohol or drug abuse problems. There is some evidence to support the following theories about the relationship between alcohol and drug abuse and bipolar disorder.

• That bipolar disorder may make a person more likely to use and abuse drugs and alcohol.
• That alcoholism or drug abuse may trigger the development of bipolar disorder in someone predisposed to bipolar disorder because of genetic makeup.
• That bipolar disorder, alcoholism, and substance abuse may have a common biochemical or genetic cause.

Alcohol and drug abuse can have a disastrous affect on anyone's life. When a person with bipolar disorder is addicted to alcohol or drugs, studies have shown that a variety of problems are likely to result, including:

• More recurrences and hospitalization
• Poor compliance with medication
• Poorer socialization and job success
• Higher rates of suicide

Problems with drugs or alcohol are not easy to admit. Sometimes the person does not even realize he or she has a problem that needs addressing. Talking to a health-care professional about possible problems with alcohol or drugs is an important first step to getting help.

Be aware of the risk of suicide. Having suicidal thoughts or behaviors is the most dangerous emergency situation for someone with bipolar disorder. The facts about bipolar disorder and suicide are grim, but people with bipolar disorder and their loved ones should be aware of them.

Approximately 25 percent of people with bipolar disorder attempt suicide at some time during their lives.

Approximately 11 percent of people with bipolar disorder commit suicide. Suicide prevention involves decreasing access to the means to commit suicide and increasing access to support systems (health-care professionals, family members, and friends).

Be sure the doctor who treats your bipolar disorder knows about any other medical conditions you have. Prescription drug treatment of bipolar disorder must be safely and effectively coordinated with the treatment you receive for other medical conditions. In particular, be sure to let your doctor know if you have or are being treated for:

• Obesity
• Diabetes mellitus
• High cholesterol
• Heart, liver, kidney, or lung disease
• Cancer
• Thyroid disorder
• HIV infection