How to Handle Dangerous Bipolar People

Millions of people suffer from a mental illness known as bipolar disorder. Someone who has this condition also may be referred to as "manic-depressive" due to the opposing mental states that accompanies this illness. The cycles of this condition alternate between being depressed and being manic. When a person is manic, whatever feelings the person is experiencing will be amplified. Although not all people with bipolar disorder are dangerous, some individuals with this illness may pose a threat to themselves, as well as to others.

Instructions

• 1

  Call 911 if the person is speaking or behaving in a threatening manner toward you, others or himself. Report any violence to the police.

• 2

  Report any suicidal tendencies to a therapist or doctor. If the person is talking about, writing about or seems obsessed with suicide or death in general, this needs to be treated as a serious threat.

• 3

  Approach the person with others around you. Avoid being alone with the bipolar person if you feel that he is dangerous. Other people can help you control the situation should a crisis arise.

• 4

  Talk with the person about seeing a doctor and a therapist, especially if this is someone you know and care about. Offer to go with the person if possible.

• 5

  Realize that the bipolar person may not be able to fully control his behavior. This knowledge can help you to not take negative behavior personally, and it also can help you realize the seriousness of the situation. Without proper medication and therapy, the person may be unable to change.

• 6

  Educate yourself about the complexities of bipolar disorder. This may help you learn to deal with bipolar individuals more efficiently.

• 7

  Maintain a healthy network of social support, as well as personal time to relax and take care of yourself. If you are caring for someone who is bipolar and dangerous, you will need to take the the time to maintain your own emotional and physical health.