How to Recognize a Bipolar Disorder Relapse

Bipolar disorder is similar to depression in that many people believe the symptoms are completely mental, when in reality there are physical symptoms predictive of an upcoming bipolar event. Bipolar disorder relapse symptoms can appear as a universal symptom - common to all patients who suffer from bipolar disorder - or they can be more personal. The most common, or universal, signs of a bipolar disorder relapse include:

• Increase in tension or anxiety.
• Suspicion of people talking about you.
• Difficulty sleeping.
• Lack of concentration.
• Decrease or increase in activity level.

Aside from these universal symptoms, the bipolar disorder relapse may also be recognized from symptoms a bit more personal to the patient's past experiences. If feelings of worthlessness were common during the diagnosis phase, these feelings may return during the bipolar disorder relapse. Other common symptoms that may occur in some bipolar cases, but not in others include:

• Self mutilation or injury.
• Attempting suicide.
• Suffering from nightmare or night terrors.
• Increase in self destructive activity.

Dealing With a Bipolar Relapse Head On

When diagnosed with bipolar disorder, it is important for the patient to plan ahead for a potential relapse even if they feel as though they are "cured" and should never have to worry about the condition again. The bipolar relapse does not have to be triggered by cessation of medication or therapy alone. It can also be triggered by extremely stressful events or sudden life changes depending on the specific case.

A bipolar disorder relapse plan can be used to map out the steps family and friends can take if they notice a recurrence of previous bipolar symptoms. This action plan should cover personal power of attorneys, medical power of attorneys and any medical intervention the patient would like to have if a total bipolar relapse should occur.

The bipolar relapse plan is important to family and friends, but also to the patient suffering from the disorder. During a bipolar episode the patient may not be able to make all the right decisions. This is due not to the fault of the bipolar patient, but is purely due to the effect of the condition on the cognitive mindset. It is important for those close to a person suffering from bipolar disorder to notice the changes early in order to stop the progression to a point where help is harder to administer.

If one thing is certain, it is that bipolar disorder is unpredictable. The bipolar disorder action plan is there to keep the patient safe, sound and in receipt of the proper care in the event that the mental status degrades to a point where decision making is altered.

Resources:

Early Signs of a Bipolar Relapse by HealthyPlace.com Staff Writer - November 29, 2008