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Bipolar Warning Signs

Bipolar disorder can go hand in hand with substance abuse, so what should you look out for if you fear someone has this disorder?

Stereotypes and misunderstandings abound when it comes to mental health issues like bipolar, but it’s important to know how to spot bipolar, in part because it can also go hand in hand with substance abuse and other types of self-harm. In fact, a recent article in Health Magazine reported that 50 percent of people with bipolar disorder also have a substance abuse problem. So what should you be on the lookout for when it comes to bipolar? The following are definite warning signs:

Great Mood

A good mood can be a sign of good health, but bipolar disorder is characterized by up-and-down episodes of mania and depression. Extreme highs and lows may be cause for concern. Hypomania, a high-energy state in which a person feels exuberant but hasn’t lost his or her grip on reality, may feel good, but it doesn’t last and coming down off that high can be dangerous.

Inability to Complete Tasks

We all have the occasional project that we never get around to finishing, but Health says a house full of half-completed projects is a hallmark of bipolar disorder. Beware of those who plan grand, unrealistic projects that are never finished before moving on to something else.

Depression

While depression can be dangerous on its own, typical antidepressants don’t work well in patients who are bipolar. They can even make people cycle more frequently, worsening their condition, or send someone into a break-with-reality episode, Health reports.

Irritability

Experiencing symptoms of mania and depression at the same time – called “mixed mania” – can make someone with this condition extremely irritable. This is different from general irritability that we all feel from time to time as those with bipolar will feel little control over their emotions.

Rapid Speech

“Pressured speech” is one of the most common symptoms of bipolar disorder. Look for someone who will talk rapidly and speak over you, jumping around to different topics.

Trouble at Work

Those with bipolar often have difficulty at work as their symptoms interfere with their ability to show up for work, do their job and interact productively with others. Be on the lookout for interpersonal problems in the workplace as a sign of bipolar.

Erratic Behavior

Those in a manic phase can have an inflated self-esteem, feeling grandiose and not considering the consequences. “Two of the most common types of behavior that can result from this are spending sprees and unusual sexual behavior,” Health reports.

Sleep Problems

People suffering from bipolar often have sleep problems, unable to get out of bed during a depression phase and not sleeping enough during a manic phase while still having an overabundance of energy.

It may be hard for those with bipolar to see their symptoms clearly, so it’s important for loved ones to be on the lookout, especially before they start attempting to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

If you or someone you love is battling a dual diagnosis that includes bipolar disorder, call The Canyon at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.

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