Is Bipolar Disorder Dangerous and How Is It Treated? | Safe and Sound
Bipolar disorder is a complex mental illness characterized by erratic shifts between manic and depressive phases. Many people wonder if bipolar disorder is dangerous and what effective treatments are available. In this article, psychiatrists from Safe and Sound will provide a comprehensive overview of the disease, its severity, treatment methods, and tips for preventing relapse to improve the quality of life and mental well-being of those affected.
Ngo Thi Sang | Master of Educational Psychology – Applied to Safe and Sound Mental Health Care
Institute of Applied Medical Technology
1. What is bipolar disorder?
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder, also known as bipolar disorder, is a serious mental disorder that affects a person's emotions, psychology, behavior, and energy. Psychiatrists say that people with this disorder often experience extreme swings between two main states: mania and depression. These mood swings not only involve erratic emotions but also significantly impact their ability to work, study, maintain relationships, and perform daily activities.
The two main states of bipolar disorder:
- Mania : This is a phase where the patient has very high energy levels, feelings of euphoria, or excessive self-confidence. According to psychiatrists, during a manic phase, patients may engage in high-risk activities such as uncontrolled spending, reckless driving, or making impulsive decisions. Some people in this phase may become easily agitated, impatient, or even aggressive.
- Depression : In contrast to mania, psychiatrists emphasize that this is a stage where patients feel sad, lose interest in life, and may even have suicidal thoughts. They may have difficulty performing simple daily activities such as eating, sleeping, or working.
In addition to the two states mentioned above, some people with bipolar disorder also experience a mixed state , where symptoms of mania and depression occur simultaneously. This increases the risk of psychological and mental harm, making it difficult for patients to control their behavior and emotions.
2. Is bipolar disorder dangerous?
Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness/psychological disorder that, if left untreated, can have significant consequences for both the patient and those around them.
a. Risks to mental health and behavior
- Suicidal thoughts and self-harming behaviors :
Psychiatrists report that approximately 25-50% of people with bipolar disorder have experienced suicidal thoughts, and 15% of those have actually committed suicide. Depressive episodes often leave patients feeling isolated, hopeless, and without a way out, leading to self-harm. Meanwhile, mixed states of mania and depression can exacerbate suicidal thoughts due to the combination of agitation and despair.
- Reckless behavior during the manic phase :
During a manic episode, patients often underestimate the risks and make impulsive decisions, such as: wasteful spending; dangerous driving….
b. Impact on relationships and quality of life
Sudden mood swings and emotional changes can damage relationships. According to psychiatrists, family members of patients may feel exhausted or hurt by uncontrolled words or behaviors during manic or depressive episodes. Mood swings make it difficult for patients to maintain friendships. Some may become isolated due to feelings of guilt or shame about their actions. Prolonged emotional burdens reduce life satisfaction, making it difficult for patients to enjoy daily activities.
c. Impact on career, decreased performance, frequent job turnover.
Bipolar disorder impacts career and work.
Psychiatrists emphasize that people with bipolar disorder often struggle to maintain focus and complete tasks. Manic episodes can lead them to take on too many projects without completing them, while depressive episodes drain their energy for work.
Work pressure or conflicts with colleagues can lead to resignation. Many people have to give up their careers because they cannot control their emotions or do not receive adequate support from their work environment.
See also: What causes bipolar disorder?
d. Risk of developing comorbidities
People with bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of developing other mental and physical health problems, which psychiatrists say may include:
- Anxiety disorders :
More than 50% of people with bipolar disorder also experience anxiety symptoms, making it difficult for them to manage stress, their mental state, and everyday situations.
- Alcohol or substance addiction :
Many patients use alcohol or stimulants as a way to cope with their mood swings, but this only worsens their condition.
- Physical illnesses :
- High blood pressure : Prolonged psychological stress during illness can lead to cardiovascular problems.
- Obesity and diabetes : Unhealthy lifestyle choices during periods of depression, combined with the side effects of medication, increase the risk of metabolic diseases.
3. How is bipolar disorder treated?
Psychiatrists share that treatment for bipolar disorder focuses on managing symptoms, reducing the risk of relapse, and improving quality of life. Below are some common treatment methods:
a. Use medication
- Mood stabilizers : Lithium is a common medication used to control manic and depressive episodes.
- Antipsychotic medications : Aripiprazole and olanzapine are often prescribed to reduce symptoms in severe cases.
- Antidepressants : Should be used with caution due to the risk of triggering mania.
b. Psychotherapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) : Helps patients identify negative thoughts and change unhealthy behaviors.
- Family therapy : Helps family members understand the illness and support the patient throughout the treatment process.
c. Healthy lifestyle
- Maintain a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. Psychiatrists recommend increasing your intake of healthy foods and limiting fast food and saturated fats. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can reduce the risk of triggering manic or depressive episodes.
- Limit alcohol, beer, and stimulants. These substances can increase the risk of symptom recurrence and negatively affect the effectiveness of medication.
d. Personal care and community support
Psychiatrists say that you can seek support from support groups or empathetic counseling from professionals to help patients find additional sources of emotional support. Support groups are places where patients can share experiences, seek empathy, and find motivation from others in similar situations.
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