Do you have a friend, family member, or someone you know who is so happy and energetic one day, but then suddenly feels like they're bored with the world for no reason? Sometimes we think this is just their 'character', but there could be a mental health condition like bipolar disorder behind it. This is a very sensitive topic, but we need to talk about it, because the biggest and most dangerous risk that comes with this condition is suicidal thoughts .
Simply put, what is bipolar disorder?
Imagine that there is a 'switch' in your mind that controls your mood. Normally, this switch is in the middle. But in someone with bipolar disorder, this switch suddenly goes up or down.
- Manic Phase: During this time, he feels extremely happy and energetic. He feels like he can conquer the world. He doesn't sleep, talks a lot, works non-stop, spends a lot of money, and makes rash decisions. To an outsider, this may seem like a very 'active' and 'happy' time.
- Depressive Phase: This is the opposite of the depression phase. You feel extremely sad, bored with life, and hopeless. You lose interest in things you used to enjoy. You feel tired all the time and have no energy. Suicidal thoughts are most common during this period.
This high-low cycle is the nature of bipolar disorder. Without proper treatment, this condition can be very dangerous. Research shows that a significant percentage of people who die by suicide are suffering from some form of depression or bipolar disorder.
What are the factors that increase the risk?
Although suicidal thoughts can occur to anyone, certain factors increase the risk. If you see this happening to someone close to you, you should be especially concerned.
| Risk Factor | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Mental illness and drug use | Having conditions like bipolar disorder, depression, or alcohol/drug addiction. The risk is very high when these two occur together. |
| Family history | If a family member has committed suicide or is suffering from mental illness. |
| Having tried before | If you have attempted suicide before, you are at higher risk of trying again. |
| Abuses in the past | Having been physically or sexually abused as a child or at some point in life. |
| Having firearms in the house | Having things nearby that can easily cause an accident when an impulse strikes. |
The most important thing is to never leave someone with these risk factors alone, and never take anything they say lightly.
Warning signs we should be on the lookout for
Often, before someone attempts suicide, they show certain clues or warning signs. Recognizing these can go a long way in saving a life.
| Warning Sign |
|---|
| Frequent talk about suicide or death. |
| Frequently saying that they are useless, helpless, or hopeless. |
| Saying things like "Everyone is better off without me" or "I want to get out of this." |
| Suddenly, from being extremely sad, to suddenly becoming very calm and happy. (This could be a 'calmness' that comes after making a decision). |
| Sudden increase in alcohol or drug use. |
| Intentionally doing things that put your life at risk, such as driving through red lights. |
| A complete loss of interest in things you used to enjoy. |
| Calling friends and relatives, talking as if they were meeting and saying goodbye, and acting as if they were taking care of their own affairs (such as debts, last wills, etc.). |
| Complete loss of sleep or severe changes in sleep patterns, feeling constantly restless and agitated. |
What would you do if you or someone you know was in this situation?
This is the most important part. Taking action can save a life.
1. Don't leave the person alone: Don't leave the person alone for any reason. Make them feel that you are with them.
2. Talk: Listen to him. Listen to what he has to say without judging or giving advice . Ask questions like, "How are you feeling?"
3. Seek immediate medical attention: This is not something you can treat at home. See your doctor immediately. Bipolar is a condition that can be managed well with treatment. With the right medication and counseling, you can control these highs and lows and live a normal life.
4. Remove dangerous items: Keep all potentially dangerous items in the house, such as medications, sharp weapons, firearms, and poisons, safely out of the reach of the person.
What to do immediately in an emergency!
If you feel that the situation is too severe to control , meaning that you cannot prevent the person from harming themselves, take immediate action.
- Immediately take him to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
- Call the national mental health helpline number 1926 for mental health help in Sri Lanka. They will provide you with the guidance you need.
- If you suspect that you have taken a poisonous substance or overdosed on a drug, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital (telephone number: 0112 686 143) immediately for advice.
By knowing this information, you will be able to help someone in need at the right time.
Take-Home Message
- Bipolar disorder is a condition that can be successfully managed with treatment. It is not anyone's fault.
- Never underestimate someone who is talking about suicide. Every word they say could be a plea for help.
- Be aware of warning signs. If you notice a change in the behavior of a friend or family member, be alert.
- Don't leave someone in need alone. Seek professional help immediately from your doctor or a qualified medical professional.
- In case of an emergency, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) or call a helpline such as 1926.
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