Does bipolar disorder increase the likelihood of suicide?

Bipolar disorder is strongly associated with suicide. People with bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of attempting or dying by suicide compared to the general population. The precise risk can vary depending on the severity of the illness, the individual's circumstances, and the presence of other mental health conditions or substance use disorders. Research suggests that about 15-20% of individuals with bipolar disorder will attempt suicide at some point in their lifetime, and the rate of completed suicides is also significantly elevated compared to individuals without mental health conditions.