Suicide is the greatest tragedy associated with bipolar disorder and an estimated 15% of bipolars will successfully commit suicide while a much greater percentage will make an attempt on their life at least once.
The suicide figures are very sad. Suicide in males is five times as common while females succeed at much lower rates.
Some warning signs of suicide include:
* Discussing suicide
* Talk or constant thoughts of death
* Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
* Heightened mania
* Very bad depression
* Death wise, tempting fate by engaging in dangerous activities.
* Loss of interest in favorite activities
* Putting affairs in order
Bipolar people who manage their disorder successfully have only a slightly higher risk of suicide than the general population. It is essential to get proper treatment to minimize your risk. Watch out for drastic changes in lifestyle as increased stress and removal from a support network can lead to increased risk of suicide.