During a bipolar episode, the individual may exhibit excessive energy, poor concentration, and risky behavior during the manic episode. On the other hand, during the depressive period, loss of energy, hopelessness and even suicidal thoughts may be experienced. These situations can negatively affect the individual’s daily life and relationships. In order to cope with bipolar crises, the awareness level of individuals and those around them should be increased. Individuals should not hesitate to seek professional help in times of crisis and should stick to their treatment plans. At the same time, family and friends should try to understand the person’s emotional fluctuations and provide support. Although bipolar crises are situations in which the individual experiences an internal struggle, it is possible to overcome these difficult processes with the right support and treatment. It should not be forgotten that when a conscious society displays an understanding and supportive attitude towards individuals with bipolar disorder, it can play an important role in improving the quality of life of these individuals.
What is bipolar crisis?
A bipolar crisis can be defined as a sudden and severe increase in symptoms of mania or depression experienced by people with bipolar disorder. Bipolar crises can significantly affect a person’s life and even cause death. The symptoms of bipolar crises are similar to those of mania or depression, but are more severe and harder to control.
Although the causes of bipolar crises are not fully known, genetics, environmental factors and changes in brain chemistry are thought to play a role. Bipolar crises can significantly impact a person’s life. For example, during a manic episode, a person may engage in risky behaviors that may negatively affect work, school, social relationships and personal life. During a depression attack, a person may experience feelings of hopelessness and pessimism, which can increase the risk of suicide. To prevent bipolar crises, it is important for people with bipolar disorder to take their medications regularly and continue psychotherapy. It is also important for a person to develop healthy lifestyle habits that will help reduce stress.
When does bipolar attack?
Episodes of mania or depression in people with bipolar disorder can often occur without any warning. However, some triggers can increase the risk of attacks. Some factors that can trigger mania episodes include:
- stressful life events
- Insomnia
- Alcohol or substance use
- some medications
- brain trauma
Some factors that can trigger episodes of depression include:
- stressful life events
- Insomnia
- Alcohol or substance use
- some medications
- brain trauma
- genetic factors
It is important for people with bipolar disorder to develop healthy lifestyle habits that help reduce stress to reduce the risk of episodes occurring. It is also important for the person to maintain sleep patterns and avoid alcohol or substance use. It is important for people with bipolar disorder to seek medical help as soon as they begin to show symptoms of mania or depression. Early treatment can help reduce the severity and duration of attacks.
What triggers a bipolar episode?
Factors that trigger bipolar disorder are complex and can vary from individual to individual. Bipolar disorder occurs as a result of the interaction of genetic, biological, environmental and psychosocial factors. However, it is difficult to identify specific triggers that can initiate bipolar episodes. People’s emotional and mental health is shaped by the interaction of a number of factors. Some possible factors that may trigger a bipolar episode:
Mania attacks
- Major life changes such as death, divorce, job loss
- Financial or relationship problems
- Insomnia or changes in sleep patterns
- Alcohol or substance use
- Some medicines, for example anticonvulsants or steroids
- brain trauma
Depression attacks
- Major life changes such as death, divorce, job loss
- Financial or relationship problems
- Insomnia or changes in sleep patterns
- Alcohol or substance use
- Some medicines, for example antibiotics or some cancer medicines
- brain trauma
- genetic factors
Because the triggers of bipolar attacks interact in a complex manner, it is important for individuals to manage this condition and stick to their treatment plans to prevent attacks. Regular medical monitoring, medication and therapy can help keep this condition under control.
What to do in a bipolar crisis?
A bipolar crisis can be defined as a sudden and severe increase in symptoms of mania or depression experienced by people with bipolar disorder. Bipolar crises can significantly affect a person’s life and even cause death. A person showing symptoms of bipolar crisis should seek medical help immediately. Medical help may include options such as medication, psychotherapy, or hospitalization, depending on the person’s condition.
During a bipolar crisis, it is important for both the individual and the people around them to respond correctly and effectively. Bipolar crises are severe emotional fluctuations that become evident during periods of mania or depression. What to do in a bipolar crisis:
- If an individual’s safety is at risk or they are experiencing a serious emotional crisis, professional help should be sought immediately.
- A person with bipolar disorder must have a treatment plan. Sticking to the treatment plan during crisis periods can reduce the severity of attacks.
- An individual can keep a diary to understand his emotional fluctuations and crisis periods. This can help identify triggering factors and prevent similar situations in the future.
- It is important to offer understanding and support to a person experiencing a bipolar crisis from family and friends. Being patient, listening, and helping the individual when he or she needs it can provide emotional support.
- Ensuring the safety of the individual is a priority. If a manic episode is experienced, the likelihood of engaging in risky behavior is higher. In this case, the potentially dangerous elements of the surrounding objects should be removed and the person should be ensured to be in a safe environment.
Disruption of sleep patterns can trigger bipolar crises. The individual should be encouraged to have a regular sleep pattern. Relaxing activities and calming routines before bed can help during this process. Bipolar crises are complex situations that vary from individual to individual. Therefore, it is important to seek professional help and stick to the individual’s customized treatment plan. Here are some things people experiencing bipolar crisis can do to get through the crisis and improve their quality of life:
- following medical instructions
- continuing psychotherapy
- Developing healthy lifestyle habits that will help reduce stress
- Reaching out to a crisis line or mental health professional if you have suicidal thoughts or plans