Bipolar Disorder and Manic Depressive Illness

Teens who suffer from bipolar disorder are often at risk for suicidal behavior. A combination of many factors— depression, substance addiction, stress, an unhappy family situation, and difficulties with peers—can increase the risks of you thinking about, attempting, and committing suicide. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people between fifteen and twenty-four. Some studies show that close to 11 percent of high school students admit to having tried at least once to kill themselves. Statistically speaking, every day an average of eighteen teens commit suicide in the United States.

Severe depression, with its feelings of overwhelming hopelessness and loneliness, can make teens vulnerable to suicide. In fact, people who suffer from bipolar disorder are thirty times more likely to commit suicide than those without a mood disorder. When coupled with substance abuse and aggressive behavior, the risks for suicide grow even higher. Sadly, between 20 to 50 percent of manic-depressives attempt suicide at least once.

It is tragic when depressed teens choose this permanent solution to solve a temporary problem. Killing yourself is a mistake you can't learn from, and the one sure thing about life is that things are always bound to change. Bipolar disorder can be treated, and most of those diagnosed with the illness find a suitable treatment and go on to live healthy, stable lives.

When you're alone with your problems, they often seem a lot worse. That is why it is very important to make an effort to talk about your problems. Don't be afraid that people will think you are weak because you are depressed and need help. Talking about your problems and seeking help means taking responsibility for yourself. This shows a lot of strength. Knowing that you are not alone and that people can and want to help you is one of the best protections against suicidal thoughts.