Risky Behavior

When you’re in a manic phase, you may feel powerful. You may start doing dangerous things that are not like you.

People in manic episodes may do things like:

• Spend money or gamble recklessly.


• Make bad business choices.


• Have impulsive and inappropriate sexual encounters.


• Drive unsafely.


• Misuse alcohol and drugs.


• Make sudden decisions, like quitting a job or getting married.

People with bipolar disorder are at high risk of abusing alcohol and drugs. This can be dangerous during both manic and depressive episodes. It can make you feel worse. And, substances also can prevent your medicines from working properly.

What happens after a manic episode can be serious. Once you’re better, you may find that you upset friends and family, wasted money, or put your job at risk. Fixing all of these things can be very hard.

Depressive episodes also cause risky behavior. One of the most serious risks for people with bipolar disorder is suicide.

Reduce the risk

Remember that your reckless behavior puts others in danger, too. If you spend too much money, you could ruin your family’s finances. If you drive too fast, you could hurt other drivers on the road. Try to think of how your actions may affect the people around you.

One of the ways to stop yourself from doing dangerous things is to get help right away.

Also, keep track of your feelings. Use your Mood Chart (PDF Format). If you think that your feelings are out of balance, see your doctor or counselor. Your family and friends can also be looking out for you. They can help when you’re in trouble.

Also of Interest

Stuart and Leslie went on shopping sprees during their manic periods.

Use a Mood Chart (PDF Format) to learn about your bipolar disorder and possible triggers.