Bipolar disorder is a mental health disorder that causes extreme mood swings and can affect a person’s life. Although it does not lead to death, bipolar disorder can reduce a person’s life expectancy. Knowing this link and its effects helps you oversee your health and well-being.
Increased Risk of Unnatural Causes
Self-termination is one of the most common causes of death in bipolar disorder patients. Severe depressive episodes and hopelessness may lead to suicidal tendencies. Research indicates that there is a 13-fold increased risk of suicide compared with the general population.
Bipolar disorder also makes the chances of accidental deaths and homicides higher. These unfortunate outcomes include poor judgment during manic episodes and failing to take care of one’s physical health.
Greater Vulnerability to Natural Causes
Bipolar disorder patients are more likely to have physical health issues as compared to the general population. This vulnerability arises due to several factors:
- Lifestyle Choices: Mania can cause such behaviors as excessive spending, lack of sleep and eating, and unsafe sex. These can lead to such vices as smoking and substance abuse. Which are even more dangerous to a person’s physical health.
- Medication Side Effects: Some of the medications that are prescribed for bipolar disorder include mood stabilizers. They may cause side effects such as weight gain, changes in metabolism, and elevated risks of developing heart disease and diabetes.
- Delayed Medical Care: Depression makes people miss their appointments with doctors and treatment for other illnesses that may be present.
Some of the physical health issues related to bipolar disorder are cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and some types of cancer. These conditions are known to develop at a younger age in bipolar disorder patients than in the general population.
Breaking the Cycle
Bipolar disorder therapy and counseling bipolar disorder specialist are essential for the treatment of the illness and prevention of its influence on the lifespan of a patient. Here’s how proactive steps can help:
- Early Diagnosis and Treatment: It is important to get professional assistance as soon as possible in order to prevent the worsening of symptoms and episodes.
- Adherence to Treatment Plan: Popping up the prescribed pills by the psychiatrist and attending therapy sessions assist in regulating moods and general health.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Adequate nutrition, exercise, and sleep are crucial to the well-being of the human body and the mind.
- Substance Abuse Prevention: Treatment of any substance dependence through counseling and support groups is essential.
- Building a Support System: Having friends, family, and other mental health care professionals on your side makes it easier for you to endure the tough times and continue with the treatment.
- Regular Medical Check-ups: Annual check-ups and other tests for other diseases also help in the early detection and treatment of the diseases. Hence improving the patient’s physical health.
Take Control of Your Mental Health and Unlock Your Full Potential
Greener Pastures Mental Welness offers personalized mental health care tailored to your unique needs. Our holistic approach combines evidence-based therapy and scientifically proven medication to help you manage your condition and improve your overall well-being. So, what are you waiting for? Contact Greener Pastures Mental Welness to schedule a consultation!
